Radio transmitter device for use in method and system for monitoring controlling and optimizing flow of products

ABSTRACT

A liquid product distribution network includes a keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus for operation in association with a tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus. The keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus includes a radio transmitter device and sensing circuitry for sensing and communicating physical properties associating with the keg. A tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus senses flow of a liquid through a tap includes a tap handle radio transmitter device for fitting within and protected by a tap handle and a low-energy consumption tap handle radio/processing module. A mobile communications device with geographic position sensing device and/or said tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus passively and without user interaction within the keg distribution network, without using network uplink/gateway circuit devices for sensing and reporting fluid storage, flow, and financial operations relating to the distribution of said liquid product throughout the liquid product distribution network.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims benefit to the following provisional andnon-provisional applications, all of which are here expresslyincorporated herein by reference:

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/339,513 entitled,“MONITORING, CONTROLLING, AND/OR OPTIMIZING FLOW OF PRODUCTS” filed onMay 20, 2016;

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/363,643 entitled“SYSTEM, APPARATUS AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING THE AMOUNT OF LIQUIDINSIDE KEGS” filed on Jul. 16, 2016;

U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/602,024 entitled“METHOD AND SYSTEM FOR MONITORING, CONTROLLING AND OPTIMIZING FLOW OFPRODUCTS DELIVERED TO CUSTOMERS VIA CONTAINERS THAT FLOW IN ADISTRIBUTION NETWORK,” Attorney Docket No. KEGS001US0TR, filed on May22, 2017;

U.S. Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 15/602,029 entitled“DISTRIBUTION NETWORK FOR MONITORING, CONTROLLING AND OPTIMIZING FLOW OFLIQUID BEVERAGE PRODUCTS DELIVERED TO CUSTOMERS VIA CONTAINERS,”Attorney Docket No. KEGS002US0 filed on May 22, 2017;

U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/604,979 entitled “COLLARRADIO TRANSMITTER,” Attorney Docket No. KEGS001USD, filed on Jul. 16,2016;

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/551,779 entitled“APPARATUS, SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR TRACKING USE OF TAP HANDLES” filed onAug. 24, 2017; and

U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/664,315 entitled“APPARATUS, SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR TRACKING USE OF TAP HANDLES,” filedon Apr. 30, 2018.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present disclosure relates generally to monitoring, controllingand/or optimizing flow of products delivered to customers via containersthat flow in a distribution network. Alternatively, disclosed subjectmatter includes a radio transmitter and methods of operation formonitoring, controlling and/or optimizing use of equipment and/orresources that are spread out in a geographic area, move between oramong locations, and have usage, contents, or other associated stateinformation.

BACKGROUND

The beer industry in the United States and other countries involves anumber of participants performing specific roles from brewing the beer,to distributing the beer, to vending the beer to consumers who finallydrink and enjoy the beer in its many forms. While the United States haslegal requirements for maintaining a three-tier system requiring allbeer to pass through a distributor or wholesaler, for many reasons athree-tiered system is the most popular way of operating the beerindustry in most other countries, as well. The distributor does theon-the-ground sales and marketing for the producer, and the distributorssell the beer to vendors who ultimately serve the beer consumer.Distributors also maintain refrigerated warehouses to store the beer,and fleets of trucks to ship the beer to ultimate destinations. Thedistributor also makes sure the retailers are always carrying freshbeer. In some states breweries are allowed to self-distribute, in whichcase the brewery takes on both production and distributing functions.

Of course, beer is sold to consumers in two primary ways, in bottles andthrough kegs. Beer kegs are made of stainless steel, or less commonly,of aluminum. A keg has a single opening on one end, called a “bung.” Atube called a “spear” extends from the opening to the other end. Mostmajor breweries now use internally speared kegs. There is a self-closingvalve that is opened by the coupling fitting which is attached when thekeg is tapped. There is also an opening at the top of the spear thatallows gas (usually carbon dioxide) to drive the beer out of the keg.The coupling fitting has one or two valves that control the flow of beerout of and gas into the keg. The keg must be in the upright position,that is, with the opening on top for the beer to be dispensed. A line isattached to the valve on the keg, and the line runs to a faucet with atap handle where the beer is dispensed to customers.

Kegs are typically the second biggest asset a brewery has (the first istheir production facility) and the asset is not under their control. Theindustry average keg loss is 4%-5% per year and usually owners do notknow where and when they are losing them. Keg deposits are only $30-$50,while the cost of the keg is $100-$150. The deposit does not cover thecost of the keg. Correlating deposits between deliverer and recipientrequires manual counting and is error prone. In order to track locationof kegs, it is necessary to manually scan them at each location.

Kegs are often stolen or misplaced by vendors. So, when breweries needempty kegs, the required kegs are not available, because they have notyet been returned. Without visibility into where the kegs are and whenthey will return, it is difficult to predict and plan for needs.

Keg maintenance schedules also are very important to maintain productquality. But without knowing the exact history of each keg, it isimpossible to determine specific schedules. Without good measurements, abrewery has little ability to optimize usage of their kegs. Keepingtrack of which kegs need to be serviced based upon number of uses in thefield requires manual counting and is error prone. Keeping track ofwhich kegs need which type of cleaning based upon number of uses alsorequires manual counting and is error prone.

When kegs are returned, it is necessary to manually scan them todetermine batch number, beer type, dates, etc. When scanning individualkegs, as they go in and out of a warehouse, one mistake can makeinventory inaccurate. Correlating keg serial numbers with deliveriesrequires manual labor and is error prone.

Keeping track of keg inventories in cold rooms, trucks, warehousesrequires manual counting and is error prone. Using cardboard labels todetermine keg contents, fill dates, etc.—a usual practice—is errorprone, because such labels frequently come off. A result is that aretail outlet may inadvertently run out of a particular style of beer.

Beer ages and some beers are better fresh and some are better aged.Unpasteurized beer must be kept below certain temperature thresholds toprevent spoilage. So, being sensitive to such product needs is anongoing challenge for distributors and vendors, as errors here canaffect a consumer's acceptance of a brewer's product.

The distributor's delivery truck is also a critical part of the beerindustry, yet a place where human limitations and incomplete informationcan cause many problems. Inside a truck, it is difficult/impossible totell exactly which kegs are in the truck. It is hard to manage a fleetof drivers, monitoring compliance, doing real-time route changes, etc.It is difficult to keep track of which kegs are in a truck fromday-to-day and as the truck drives in delivers and pick-ups. Drivers mayalso try to disable tracking to hide unscheduled stops. It is difficultto capture mileage and speed data from a truck. It is hard to train newdrivers on a route, and hard for drivers to learn the nuances of theirconsumers' requirements.

One way to solve these problems might be to use GPS tracking devices onthe beer kegs. But, tracking devices are often removed by a personstealing a keg. Most GPS tracking equipment costs nominally $100,because it includes a cell radio, GPS radio, etc. GPS tracking equipmentalso is bulky and requires power to operate. Most GPS tracking equipmentrequires a cell data plan to communicate back to the owner. This monthlyfee is prohibitive for a beer keg. This cost and the relatedcomplications make GPS trackers prohibitive for a beer keg.

Although a brewery/distributor sells a keg to a vendor (i.e. restaurant,bar, etc.) it does not mean the keg goes on tap (i.e. pints of itoffered for sale). So, the brewery/distributor does not know if thevendor needs a new keg or not. It is necessary, therefore, for thebrewery and distributor to visit the vendor account to check if a givenkeg is on tap. A brewery and distributor also wants to know if a keg is“full at restaurant,” “empty at distributor” and other logical statesand transitions. Gathering this information can be very time consumingand difficult, requiring several trips just to maintain the information.

Once a keg reaches a vendor, it is hard to determine when a line in thetap room might run out due to a keg in the cold room. A vendor wouldlike to know how many servings they can sell, but POS tracking of keglevels is inaccurate due to variances in how the beer is served and whenand how a keg is changed out. Flow meters which measure how much liquidis taken out of a keg (and thereby how full the keg is) must beinstalled (1) in the line between the keg and the handle in the bar; or(2) inside the valve which is attached to the keg; or (3) inside thevalve in the handle. Again, there is the problem of correlating kegchanges with the flow meter measurements. Measuring the liquid levelinside a container often requires breaching the container. Solutions forweighing the keg to determine how full it is also may require each kegto be weighed individually, and the scale may interfere with shelvingand need to be transitioned between kegs. All of this unduly complicatesthe use of kegs and experience that vendors and consumers enjoy in theuse of kegs.

There is also opportunity for improving the relationships between thebrewery and the consumer. In the marketplace, it is difficult todetermine marketing effectiveness for a specific beer. Consumers desireto engage with the beers they like. Consumers would like to know whentheir favorite beer is available nearby. When a favorite beer is notavailable, consumers would like to know recommendations of somethingelse to try. When travelling, it is hard for a consumer to find a placeand something they would like Breweries would like to gain the attentionof new consumers. It is difficult to blindly determine a consumer'sdrinking preferences (i.e. type of beer). A vendor's point-of-saleterminal will often not distinguish which beer was sold. Consumers maywant to engage a specific style of beer. Consumers also would like toknow when promotions occur.

Considering the above factors, today's beer industry calls forsignificant improvement in the supply chain involving breweries,distributors, vendors, and consumers. There is the need to greatlyimprove the use and monitoring of beer kegs throughout the beer supplychain for both industry profitability and consumer protection andenjoyment. However, until the present disclosure, no such improvementshave been effective in satisfactorily addressing these concerns andopportunities.

In many applications is it currently not possible or economicallyfeasible to provide a fill level measuring device on a transportablefluid container, where remote determination of the fluid level insidethe container from a third location is desired. This capability can bedesired for a variety of reasons such as preventing supply from runningout, optimizing delivery and distribution schedules and/or stock levels,analyzing fluid use over time, adhering to product freshnessrequirements, etc.

Due to pressure requirements, temperature requirements, or fluid contentrequirements, many transportable fluid containers are made from metal.Metal prevents radio and visible light detection systems fromdetermining fluid level from outside the container. Thus, most fluidmeasurement systems for metal vessels require either penetrating thecontainer (ultrasonic reflections, floats), are weight based (measuringweight of container), or flow based (measuring how much content has leftthe container). Each of these solutions has limitations.

Systems which penetrate the container are expensive to implement onexisting containers. Also, some fluid containers (such as beer kegs)have strict cleaning requirements that any system inside the containermust adhere to. When the contents are flammable (for example, propane)it is difficult to safely introduce electrical circuits inside thecontainer. Systems which exist inside the container must survive in allthe temperature extremes required of the container and its contents.Beer kegs require steam sanitization. Propane tanks require extreme coldas the liquid evaporates. These requirements make measurement systemsthat exist inside the container difficult to implement and expensive.

Alternatively, a container can adopt a weighing system on the outside ofthe main vessel. These types of systems are expensive and requiremodification of the containment vessel, since the measurement devicemust support the full weight of the vessel and its contents. Reliableoperation of such devices on a variety of surfaces—from uneven floors toopen wire shelves—is difficult to achieve. These types of fluidmeasuring systems are difficult to implement, heavy and expensive.

Flow based systems measure fluid as it leaves the vessel. If such asystem is integrated into the container, it suffers the samedifficulties listed above as any measurement system that penetrates thecontainer. If such a system is on the outside of the container,established distribution methods, such as standardized couplings andsizes of containers, make modifying the container impractical. Toachieve compatibility with existing fluid dispensing systems any suchflow measuring device should not change the size, shape or requiredcoupling of the container. In addition, the device should not be easilydetached from the container. These requirements make flow basedmeasurement devices impractical for use on a mobile container.

Flow based measurement systems are primarily used in the lines which areconnected to a fluid container. When used this way, the flow basedmeasuring device has difficulty distinguishing between full andpartially full containers. These types of measurement devices have thelimitation of not knowing which container they are attached to. Onlymeasuring the amount of fluid that goes through the line may not give anaccurate determination of container fill level, because it is not knownhow full the container was initially, how much of the flow to attributeto a one container vs another one. Beer kegs, in particular, can beconnected and disconnected frequently (for example, for regular linecleaning) while the keg is still being drained, making keeping track ofwhen a new container is attached to a line difficult.

Dispensing systems which maintain constant container pressure (such asbeer keg dispensing systems) do not provide a means to directly measurefluid volume using pressure. Beer kegs are highly sensitive to bacterialcontamination and any measurement system which is in contact with thefluid must be easy to sanitize and maintain. Flammable contents, such aspropane tanks, make electrical connections inside a containment vesseldifficult to safely achieve. Heat requirements (for example, steamsanitation) prevent many common fill level detection mechanisms thatrely upon being inside the container.

Established distribution methods, such as standardized couplings andsizes of containers, make adding a fluid transfer measuring device tothe container impractical if it would change the size, shape or requiredcoupling of the container. Fluid measurement devices which are in linewith the container coupling instead of attached to the container itselfare unreliable. These types of measurement devices have the limitationof not knowing which container they are attached to. Only measuring theamount of fluid that goes through the line may not give an accuratedetermination of container fill level, because it is not known how fullthe container was initially, how much of the flow to attribute to a onecontainer vs another one.

Many fluid measurement systems for pressurized containers areeconomically unviable in relationship to the value of the containerand/or its contents. When containers are rotated frequently (beer kegs,consumer propane tanks) the supplier must consider the cost of loss ordamage to the container. Measurement of fluid level is most valuablewhen it can be done remotely, without requiring ready access to thecontainer. In addition to fluid level, remote identification of thegiven container and its particular contents is also valuable.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

Considering the above problems with the beer industry at each level ofbrewery, distributor, vendor and consumer, the present disclosureprovides numerous innovations, improvements, and inventions relating tomonitoring, controlling and/or optimizing flow of products delivered toconsumers via containers that flow in a distribution network. Thedisclosed subject matter includes method and system for monitoring,controlling and/or optimizing use of equipment and/or resources that arespread out in a geographic area, move between or among locations, andhave usage, contents, or other associated state information.

According to one aspect of the present disclosure a liquid productdistribution network monitoring and reporting system includes a kegdistribution monitoring and reporting apparatus for operation inassociation with a tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus.The keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus include a radiotransmitter device comprising a low-energy consumption radio/processingmodule. Sensing circuitry associates with the radio transmitter devicefor sensing and communicating to the radio/processing module physicalproperties associating with the keg. Radiofrequency signal transmissioncircuitry associates with the radio/processing module for transmittingradiofrequency signals without the use of geographic position or cellradio circuitry.

The tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus includescircuitry for sensing flow of a liquid through a tap positioned todispense a liquid from the keg. The tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus includes a tap handle radio transmitter device forfitting within and being protected by a tap handle and comprising alow-energy consumption tap handle radio/processing module. The taphandle sensing circuitry associates with the tap handle radiotransmitter device for sensing and communicating to the tap handleradio/processing module physical properties associating with liquiddispensed from the keg.

Tap handle radiofrequency signal transmission circuitry associates withthe tap handle radio/processing module for transmitting radiofrequencysignals from the tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatuswithout the use of geographic position or cell radio circuitry. A taphandle battery power supply fits within and protected by the tap handleand electrically powers the tap handle radio transmitter device.

A mobile communications device including geographic position sensing andcell radio circuitry for moving to a plurality of locations within thekeg distribution network and configured to selectively receive andprocess the radiofrequency signals from the small form factor andreporting device and/or the tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus passively and without user interaction. The mobilecommunications device further includes memory circuitry for storing dataand computer processor executable instructions relating to the keg andthe keg distribution network. The mobile communications device furtherincludes computer processing circuitry for processing the data andexecuting the executable instructions for monitoring and reporting thephysical properties and location of the keg within the keg distributionnetwork, without otherwise using network uplink/gateway circuit device.

The keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus and the taphandle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus may operate independentlyor collaboratively for sensing and reporting the status of fluidstorage, flow, and financial operations relating to the distribution ofthe liquid product throughout the liquid product distribution network.

The liquid product distribution network of the present disclosureincludes a radio transmitter providing wireless communications fordetermination of exact kegs, even if they are not visible/accessible.The radio transmitter also makes possible exact keg inventory in awarehouse. The radio transmitter also makes possible automatic andreal-time correlation of returned kegs, as well as determination of keglocation, and cold room inventory. The radio transmitter makes use ofnormal mobile phones for detecting kegs within a 100′ radius, in thebackground, without any manual interaction and at a distance withoutkegs being visible.

The radio transmitter permits automatically and accurately correlatingkeg serial numbers for correlating deposits and maintaining inventory.The radio transmitter and associated software permits easily looking upkeg contents, fill dates, etc., and can use a normal mobile phone, aswell as flag kegs for service based upon number of turns in the field.

Because the radio transmitter enables uniquely identifies a keg, as wellas its distributor and brand, the status of the keg can be automaticallyrelayed to the brewery/distributor. The distribution network mechanismfor determining how full each keg attaches to the keg and does notrequire shifting of kegs on scales for weighing. The radio transmitterconnects within the distribution network to automatically relay filldata to the correct brewery/distributor.

By leveraging a cell phone communication system, the radio transmitterdoes not need its own GPS and cell radios, allowing it to cost tendollars or less. The radio transmitter also does not require a monthlycell data plan, has a small form factor, and can run five years ontypical lithium battery cells. By operating nominally for five years,the radio transmitter aligns with the normal five-year service cycle ofkegs. The distribution network includes a keg level measuring systemthat does not require penetration of the container. The keg levelmeasuring system isolates acoustic measurements by: (1) using ambientnoise cancellation; (2) timing measurements to correspond with theacoustic impulse generated by the immediate keg. The level measuringsystem is not continuous, saving power when not measuring, as well asdoes not require either penetration of lines or modification ofhandles/taps.

The distribution network includes a truck reader that allows real-timeinventory of a delivery truck. By putting the antennas at the end ofwires, the truck reader main unit can be hidden and/or made secure underthe dash or seats. By connecting the ODB2 port in the delivery truck,the unit is easy to install and can collect mileage, speed and otherdata from the vehicle. By integrating a Wi-Fi antenna, the unit can“store and forward”—collect data during the day and automaticallydownload it at night when the truck returns to base. The truck readeracts as a knowledge base for delivery drivers—keeping track ofinformation they need to make deliveries—such as instructions on whereto park, lock codes or access codes, best time of day to makedeliveries, consumer contacts and instructions, etc.

The truck reader allows real-time monitoring of trucks and drivers. Forexample, the truck reader enables determining which driver is nearest toa required delivery, and whether drivers stay on their routes or makeunscheduled stops, etc.

By collecting data on the location and history of kegs or handles, thedistribution network determines state transitions for kegs. Some of thestate transitions are determined retroactively. For example, a lack ofreadings after a period of time may retroactively determine a statetransition that occurred at the beginning of the period. Hand-offsbetween sensing devices and locations can determine state changes. Forexample, a keg that was detected by a cold room reader, but then is nolonger detected by that reader, then is detected by a truck reader,might cause a state change to “being delivered.”

The distribution network may have determined a keg has been delivered toa vendor (i.e. consumer such as restaurant/bar), but may not know whichvendor or exactly when. When a mobile sensor (such as a mobile phone)detects/contacts the presence of the keg at a location, the distributionnetwork then determines which vendor the keg went to, and canretroactively determine the delivery schedule and other informationbecause it now knows which vendor received the keg.

Using store and forward, the mobile sensor can download historicalinformation from the radio transmitter 16 when it detects it at avendor. Using the mesh network and store and forward at a vendor, anarriving keg can communicate its arrival to the other kegs at thevendor. When one of the older kegs leaves the vendor and returns to thebrewery, it forwards the information from the keg that newly arrivedwhile it was at the vendor.

The distribution network includes a weighing mat that can integratebranding so that a given type of keg is correlated to a place on themat. A brewery can sponsor their portion of a mat, allowing the totalarea of the mat to build up over time. The mat determines wirelesslyusing the radio transmitter where kegs are on the mat, to determinewhich exact keg is being weighed. By correlating the decrease in keglevels with drink purchases, it is possible to determine which consumerpurchased from which keg. Once the keg is determined, it is then knownwhich brewery, type of beer, date brewed, etc.

By correlating consumer location against keg location, it is possible tonotify the consumer (1) when a keg of their favorite beer goes on tap;(2) the nearest location to purchase a glass of beer; (3) how long thebeer is likely to be on tap (i.e. how empty the keg is); (4) the keg isno longer available; (5) how fresh the beer is (i.e. when it wasbrewed). When a limited supply keg goes on tap, the action of going ontap can trigger alerts to consumers indicating the keg is now available.

The distribution network can indicate other beers currently available ontap that are similar to what the consumer likes/has purchasedbefore/what their friend likes/what others are drinking/what ispopular/what is freshest/what has aged longest/what is seasonal orspecial/what is from a local brewery/what is from a faraway brewery/whathas special ingredients/what is of limited supply. The distributionnetwork can indicate other beers currently available on tap that aresimilar to what the consumer likes/has purchased before/etc. therebyintroducing the consumer to new breweries. Distribution network canindicate the brew date of each beer, how long it has aged, how long ithas been on tap, etc.

By correlating consumer purchase of product against marketing done tothe consumer, it is possible to determine marketing effectiveness, andthereby improve future marketing. A brewery can allow a consumer to“sponsor” a keg such that the consumer is notified where the kegtravels, when it arrives locations, etc. If the consumer wants tosponsor a keg with a certain type of beer only, a container can beallocated to his sponsorship at every brewing, so it appears he “owns” aspecific keg, even if the actual container is different at each brewing.This allows a brewery to rotate their kegs normally while still allowingthe consumer to perceive they are sponsoring a single keg.

The present invention describes a system and mechanism for remotelydetermining the fill level of a fluid container.

The present invention for remotely determining the fill level of acontainer addresses the above needs by working with metal containers,while being small and inexpensive to adapt to existing containers.Because the fill level does not penetrate the main container vessel, theadvantage of not extending or modifying the container or its valves andcouplings exists. The system and mechanism of the present disclosuredoes not directly contact the main vessel body or the fluid inside anddoes not need to be protected from heat of sterilization and cold ofevaporation.

These and numerous other technical and operational advantages will beclear upon an understanding of the presently disclosed subject matter,which fully support the claims made herein.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The novel features believed characteristic of the disclosed subjectmatter will be set forth in any claims that are filed later. Thedisclosed subject matter itself, however, as well as the preferred modeof use, further objectives, and advantages thereof, will best beunderstood by reference to the following detailed description of anillustrative embodiment when read in conjunction with the accompanydrawings, wherein:

Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will nowbe made to the accompanying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn toscale, and wherein:

FIG. 1 illustrates the architecture of the liquid product distributionnetwork of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 shows and exploded view of the radio transmitter of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the PCB and battery assembly ofthe present disclosure including components for performing the disclosedfunctions;

FIG. 4 shows and assembled radio transmitter according to the teachingsof the present disclosures;

FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary mode of attaching the radio transmitter ofthe present disclosure to the rim of a keg;

FIG. 6 shows an alternate switch configuration employing the keg metalsurface to turn on the radio transmitter;

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of a tamper-resistant mechanism forholding and securing the radio transmitter to the keg rim;

FIGS. 8A through 8C depict a radio transmitter fixing mechanism forsecuring the radio transmitter of the present disclosure to the keg rim;

FIG. 9 shows an alternative fixing mechanism for securing the radiotransmitter around the handle of a keg;

FIG. 10 depicts one embodiment of a fluid level measurement mechanismfor determining keg volume;

FIGS. 11A through 11C show various ways of securing embodiments of theradio transmitter and volume monitoring device of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of an authenticated attachmentmechanism for securing the radio transmitter to a keg;

FIG. 13 presents a circuit block diagram of the radio transmitterarchitecture according to a preferred embodiment of the presentlydisclosed system;

FIGS. 14A and 14B portray various hardware for use on a delivery truckoperating within the liquid product distribution network of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 15 provides various example events that may influence thetransition of keg states as monitored kegs 14 move from variousgeographic regions;

FIG. 16 shows the arrangement of various kegs 14 on an exemplary mat foruse in the system of the present disclosure;

FIG. 17 illustrates improved keg use, monitoring, and reporting betweenoperations that occur in a cold room and operations that occur in apublic room, such as a restaurant or other location;

FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary radio transmitter signal reader for tagdetection and measurement according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 shows the arrangement of a fill reader in association with acold room or other location for detecting and reporting the condition ofa plurality of kegs;

FIG. 20 illustrates conceptually the use of tap handles as a trackingmechanism for beer or other liquid dispensing flow according to theteachings of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 show how the tap handle of the present disclosure may beconstructed to achieve liquid dispensing measuring and reporting;

FIGS. 22 through 24 depict various alternative embodiments of the taphandle flow measuring and reporting mechanism of the presently disclosedmethod and system;

FIGS. 25 through 26 depict various alternative embodiments of the taphandle flow measuring and reporting apparatus of the presently disclosedmethod and system;

FIG. 27 presents a circuit block diagram of the radio transmitterarchitecture for the presently disclosed tap handle flow measuring andreporting apparatus according to a preferred embodiment;

FIG. 28 shows a circuit diagram of the tap handle flow measuring andreporting apparatus of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 illustrates the connecting circuitry of the presently disclosedtap handle measuring and reporting device;

FIGS. 30A and 30B demonstrate the construction of the electricalconnectivity for the tap handle flow measuring and reporting circuitryof the present disclosure;

FIGS. 31A through 31C illustrate a preferred embodiment of the taphandle flow measuring and reporting device for operating consistent withthe teaching of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 32A through 32C show an alternative embodiment of the presentdisclosure;

FIG. 33 shows a fully assembled embodiment of the device appearing inFIGS. 32A through 32C;

FIGS. 34 through 36 present further alternative embodiments of the taphandle flow measuring and reporting apparatus of the present disclosure;

FIG. 37 illustrates exemplary screen of a monitoring device as may beapplied in FIG. 19;

FIGS. 38A and 38B illustrate how the liquid product distribution networkof the present disclosure may sense keg status in a cold room with aclosed metal door.

FIG. 39 depicts a layered construction of a weighing mat according tothe teachings of the present disclosure;40

FIG. 40 depicts a weighing or measuring device for integration into theweighing mat of the present disclosure;

FIG. 41 illustrates the association of a keg radio transmitter with aweighing mat of the present disclosure;

FIG. 42 shows a potential configuration of stacked kegs 14 as may bemeasured and monitored using the weighing mat of the present disclosure;

FIGS. 43 through 46 show various screens of a mobile device applicationfor the present disclosure;

FIGS. 47 through 49 illustrate exemplary screens as may find use formobile phones and tablets for detecting and reporting kegs or handles atvarious locations and data applicable to monitoring and reporting of thepresent disclosure;

FIG. 50 illustrates a marketing feedback loop of an application of thepresent disclosure.

FIGS. 51A through 51D illustrate data as may be reported by software ofthe present;

FIG. 52 illustrates an account editor display of the system of thepresent; and

FIG. 53 further shows information as may be generated by the system ofthe present disclosure in the delivery of numerous ones of the taphandle flow measuring and reporting apparatus.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

One or more embodiments of the invention are described below. It shouldbe noted that these and any other embodiments are exemplary and areintended to be illustrative of the invention rather than limiting. Whilethe invention is widely applicable to different types of systems, it isimpossible to include all the possible embodiments and contexts of theinvention in this disclosure. Upon reading this disclosure, manyalternative embodiments of the present invention will be apparent topersons of ordinary skill in the art.

FIG. 1 illustrates the architecture of the liquid product distributionnetwork of the present disclosure. Liquid product distribution network(or distribution network) 10 is a system for monitoring, controllingand/or optimizing flow of products delivered to customers via containersthat flow in a distribution network. Alternatively, distribution network10 is a system for monitoring, controlling and/or optimizing use ofequipment and/or resources that are spread out in a geographic area,move between or among locations, and have usage, contents, or otherstate information associated with them.

FIG. 1 shows distribution network 10 which may be considered to begin atkeg 14 section 12, where kegs 14 and either a sensor and radiotransmitter 16 may operate either alone or in conjunction with abelow-explained and described tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus. Note that the description of FIG. 1 in the presentlydisclosed embodiment may apply to a sensor and radio transmitter 16positioned on a keg 14 or, as will be described more fully below, mayapply to a tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus. Sensorand radio transmitter 16 and a tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus here disclosed may perform similar functions for monitoring,controlling and optimizing flow of products in a distribution network,such as a beer distribution network. Thus, sensor and radio transmitter16 and the below-described tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus may operate in coordination or separately. These initialaspects of the present description, accordingly, will focus on sensorand radio transmitter 16. Thereafter, a more detailed description of thetap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus will follow. So, bothsensor and radio transmitter 16 and the structure and function of theherein described tap handle monitoring and reporting apparatus arewithin the scope of the inventions of this disclosure.

Referring further to FIG. 1, therefore, tap handles may represent thepresence of each keg 14 section 12 a plurality of liquid productcontainers, here kegs 14, may become part of distribution network 10.Through use of sensor and radio transmitters 16 associated with kegs 14,a mesh network 18 results. Mesh network 18 has functions applicable tobreweries 20, trucks 22, warehouses 24, cold rooms 26, restaurants 28,and vendors 30, and even event venues 32.

Sensors/data collection section 34 adjoins keg 14 section 12 as the nextintegral part of distribution network 10. At sensors/data collectionsection 34 may be several devices that receive the output from keg 14section 12. Stationary reader 36 may receive information from meshnetwork 18, as may mobile devices such as mobile device 38, mobiledevice 40, and mobile device 42. Herein, sensing device 36/38 referenceseither stationary reader 36 and/or mobile devices 38, 40, 42 as is mostappropriate in the specific context.

Sensor/data collection section 34 also provides association viainterface 44 with management software, such as ERP system software 46,POS system software 48, and CMS system software 50. ERP system software46 provides functions of brewery management software. POS systemsoftware 48 provides functions of point-of-sale systems. And, CMS systemsoftware 50 provides customer management software functions fordistribution network 10.

Server section 52 provides interface between distribution network 10 andthe Internet 54. Using server computers 52, server section 52 makesaccessible to distribution network 10 all the applications data andother resources that may be on the Internet and as may be applicable tothe operation of distribution network 10.

Reporting/marketing/sales (RMS) section 58 provides accounting andmanagement functions via mobile device 60, which may be any one ofmobile devices 38, 40, or 42. In addition, computers such as desktop ora mainframe computers 62 may interface with distribution network 10 bycommunication with server section 52. Using our RMS section 58,breweries 20, distributors 64, vendors 30, and consumers 66 may benefitfrom the operation of distribution network 10.

Also, as may be considered either an adjunct or part of distributionnetwork 10, there appears delivery section 68. Delivery section 68 mayinclude numerous delivery trucks 70 equipped with various communicationsand display hardware 72 for communication with mesh network 18 andindividual radio transmitters 16 affixed to kegs or handles 14.

In distribution network 10 system, radio transmitters 16 attach to kegs,handles 14 or other items being tracked. Kegs 14 being tracked are notfixed in geographic location, but move based upon the needs of thebusiness tracking them, and so the transmitters move in geographiclocation. Stationary reader 36 and mobile devices 38, 40, 42 act assensors and may or may not have fixed geographic locations.

Distribution network 10 software permits automatically reporting thelocation of each keg 14, as well as the state and/or the state of thecontents of each keg 14, as well as the state and position of eachhandle. In many applications, keg 14 state/content tracking is moreimportant than just keg 14 location. For example, in the brewingindustry, keg 14 may go from “Empty” to “Filled With IPA” to “IPA atDistributor” to “IPA at Customer” to “IPA on Tap at Customer” to “Emptyat Customer”, etc. Distribution network 10 software automaticallydetects and updates the known state of the contents of each keg 14, asfollows.

Example events that may influence the transition of state include:entering or exiting a geographic region; arriving near or departing froma stationary reader 36; receiving an input event from a related system;sensors on radio transmitter 14 itself; etc. Kegs 14 have wireless radiotransmitters 16. The location of radio transmitter 16 on keg 14 may beat a variety of locations on keg 14, as may be more advantageous forsensor readings, accuracy of calculations and/or receiving the wirelesssignal. Radio transmitters 16 attach on the outside of keg 14 withoutmodifying or penetrating it, and do not have a direct way to measureliquid level inside or weight of keg 14.

Distribution network 10 software does not have to collect all themeasurements before computing a state transition. Distribution network10 software may be distributed across multiple sensor radio transmitters16, as well as multiple mobile devices 38, as well as stationary readers36, as well as server computers 56 on internet cloud 54. Each of theseis considered a node in distribution network 10. Any node indistribution network 10 may have authority to determine a state changeof a keg 14 or mesh network 18 and then communicate the change to restof distribution network 10. RMS section 58 permits arbitrating all suchstate changes and recording the ultimate state of kegs 14 or meshnetworks 18 for reporting to a user.

There may be buffering/delay between triggering events in the operationof distribution network 10, and the ultimate propagation of statechanges in the rest of distribution network 10. This is becausecollection from radio transmitters 16, sensing and/or gathering of dataat stationary readers 36 or mobile devices 38, communication to a serversection 52 may not occur in real time. For example, the sensing and/orgathering by stationary reader 36 may happen when there is no availableconnection to distribution network 10. In this case, the data isbuffered until a connection is established, and then the keg 14 statechanges propagate through distribution network 10.

Example applications that distribution network 10 enable include keg 14and content tracking, delivery truck 70 communications, industrial orcontractor equipment status and location tracking, shipments, tools anduse, leased items, railroad cars, pets, shopping carts, portabletoilets, storage containers, food or beverage or produce deliverycontainers, fuel cells or containers, etc.

Distribution network 10 enables optimization and efficiency in thedelivery, pickup, and tracking of kegs 14 and/or keg 14 content.Tracking of kegs 14 and detailed knowledge of keg 14 contents makespossible automatic restaurant menu changes, automatic stock ordering,data for supplier manufacturing forecasts, automatic marketing andadvertising messages, automatic and real-time inventory in warehousesand storage areas such as cold rooms, automatic check-in and check-outof containers, and optimization of replenishment delivery schedulesand/or routing. Distribution network 10 also enables determining howlong a keg 14 or similar piece of equipment has been in service fortriggering maintenance schedules, automatically generate invoices,monitoring lease compliance, and generating alarms. Distribution network10 further enables monitoring temperature of contents for legal andregulatory compliance, reporting a “good” state of keg 14 contents, aswell as reporting over/under temperature procedures.

Wireless technologies which distribution network 10 may employ includeBluetooth, ZigBee, Wi-Fi, GPRS, GSM, CDMA, ultrasonic, infrared, etc.;example wired technologies which could be employed are Ethernet,optical, serial, etc. Wireless capability 38 means scanning of kegs andhandles 14 may occur automatically, in the background, without anymanual interaction.

Wireless scanning can occur at a distance without kegs or handles 14being visible. Wireless scanning can occur at a distance without specialequipment. Use of mobile devices 38 means anyone can detect kegs 14within 100′ radius, said radius depending upon exact capabilities ofmobile device. Wireless capability allows real-time and automaticdetermination of container status without manual scanning. Wirelesscapability allows automatic and real-time determination of containerlocations without manual scanning. Radio transmitter may work eveninside palletized and stacked collections of many kegs, or withindrawers or boxes containing many handles 14.

By leveraging the known mobile devices 38, radio transmitter 16 does notneed its own GPS and cell radios, allowing it to cost −$10 or less.Radio transmitter 16 does not require a monthly cell data plan, has asmall form factor, and can run five years or more on typical lithiumbattery cells. By operating at least five years, the radio transmitteraligns with the normal five-year service cycle of kegs.

Radio transmitter 16 takes advantage of available connection points. Ifstationary reader 36 or mobile device 38 is nearby, radio transmitter 16will default to communicate with that device. However, if neither isnearby, radio transmitter 16 may choose to upgrade communication toWi-Fi. However, if Wi-Fi is not available either, radio transmitter 16may choose to upgrade communication to cell data. In this way,communication is escalated to more expensive mediums only when required.

By using a “store and forward” function, distribution network 10 cansend only summary information (for example, position once a day) overthe cell data network, and save locally the entire history for uploadinglater when a less expensive (i.e. free) medium is available.

Point-of-sale terminal, POS 48, may provide sales data either directlyto sensor/data collection section 34 or to Internet in server section52. Server section 52 aggregates data and performs calculations todetermine fill levels of each keg 14 and delivers resulting data andreports to breweries 20, distributors 64, vendors 30 and/or customers66. Additionally, server section 52 performs actions based upon thedetermined fill data—for example, automatically reordering stock.

Available direct or indirect data communication mechanisms and/orprotocols include wired, wireless, ad-hoc, peer-to-peer, audio, optical,radio, serial, TCP/IP, UDP, Ethernet, etc. Mobile device 38 may have awireless connection to the internet (for example, Wi-Fi) whilestationary reader 36 inside cold room of keg 14 section 12 may require anon-wireless connection (for example, Ethernet or serial line) due tothe walls of a cold room shielding wireless communication.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of delivery data. Eachradio transmitter 16 has a unique ID, and can store information about akeg 14 to which it attaches either in its own memory, or on servercomputer 56. Such history includes the delivery date to a vendor 30,which product is in keg 14, what type of product it is, when it wasbrewed, when keg 14 was filled, which distributor 64 delivered the keg14, temperature history, etc. If the data is stored on radio transmitter16, another radio transmitter 16 may forward the data using the meshnetwork, and/or stationary reader 36 and/or mobile device 38 receivesthe data and sends it to server section computer 56; otherwise the datais already on server computer 56 and indexed by the unique ID.Additionally, location, market data, sales history and other informationabout a vendor 64 is stored on server computer 56. All this informationis provided for the calculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on the locationvia stationary reader 36. By examining the wireless signals receivedfrom each keg 14, stationary reader 36 may determine the distance fromeach of its antenna(s) to each keg 14. This information can be used togenerate a three-dimensional estimate of the location of each keg 14.stationary reader 36 is situated in a cold room to be able to determinethe distance of each keg 14 from tap lines. Typically, stationary reader36 might be placed near where the tap lines go through the wall of acold room into the public dispensing area of vendor 30, and/or situatedvertically to best measure stacked kegs 14 and/or kegs 14 on shelves.The location data is provided to the calculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on empty kegs 14.Typical cold rooms are crowded, and empty kegs 14 tend not to be storedin them. A keg 14 leaving the cold room is an indicator of whether thekeg 14 is full or empty—has been tapped or not—and this data is providedto the calculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on distance. Thedistance of each keg 14 from the tap wall is an indicator of whether thekeg 14 has been tapped or not, and this data is provided to thecalculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on delivery date.Since kegs 14 are typically tapped in the order of delivery, deliverydate is provided to the calculation of keg 14 fill level. Additionally,the delivery date provides a measurement of hysteresis to other eventssuch as a keg 14 leaving the cold room.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on radiotransmitter 16. Distribution network 10 radio transmitters 16 may haveadditional sensors on them (such as temperature, shake sensor, etc.) andstationary reader 36 collects the data from these sensors and providesthem to the calculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on inputs to thekeg 14 fill level calculation. Stationary reader 36, mobile devices 38,and radio transmitters 16 permit the collection of data which is fedinto methods that determine the fill level of each keg 14.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on productinformation. Distribution network 10 knows the brand and product in eachkeg 14, and thereby the type of product (IPA, Pilsner, Porter, Bock,etc.). The brand, product, type of product, and current sales rate foreach such product is provided to the calculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on keg 14history. Server section 52 collects historical data (such as sale ratefor each brand, product, type, etc.) for each calendar day (for example,workdays vs holidays) and day of week (for example, weekday vs weekend)and provides this to the calculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on vendors 30.Server section 52 stores information about each vendor 30 (e.g., zipcode, historical sales data, etc.) and this data is provided to thecalculation of keg 14 fill level.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of data on handles, suchas whether the handle is on a faucet, what position the handle is, whenand how long the faucet is held open, etc.

Distribution network 10 permits the collection of the importance of eachdata item to the calculation of keg 14 fill level. Importance weightsare calculated from the provided input values, and then applied to eachinput value along with threshold values to determine probability answersto the following questions:

-   -   Is the keg 14: (1) full and staged to be tapped; (2) actually on        tap; or (3) emptied and off tap?    -   If (2) the keg 14 is on tap, how full is it?    -   If the keg 14 is not yet empty, when is it expected to be empty?    -   What is the rate of consumption of the product in each keg 14 at        the Vendor 30?

A margin of error is also determined for the answer to each of theabove, and the margin of error feeds back into the calculation. When thecalculated probability answer is determined to be above a set thresholdfor each question, the question is considered to have the given answer.

Certain input data provides a verified answer to a question. Forexample, a keg 14 being returned to a distributor 64 after having beendelivered to a vendor 30 and staying in the cold room long enough to beemptied, calculations could verify that keg 14 has been emptied. As kegs14 are verified to have transitioned from being on tap to being emptiedand off tap, the previous time estimates are compared against the actualtime, and feedback is applied into the calculation to improve theestimates.

Distribution network 10 also supports actions that may be triggeredbased upon the results of the calculations. For example: automaticreordering; updating a web site or public display of the products on tapor scheduled to be on tap; notifying interested users of the current orexpected states) of keg(s)—for example, notifying a sponsor of a keg 14that their keg 14 is about to go on tap, is on tap, or has been emptied;feeding the rate of keg 14 emptying into product forecasts; etc.

An alternative embodiment of distribution network 10 may not includestationary reader 36. When it is not possible to install a stationaryreader 36 inside a vendor cold room, radio transmitter 16 on the kegs 14are able to act in a bi-directional mode. In this mode, data iscommunicated between the kegs 14 about their position and/or todetermine their position in the cold room and/or calculate their filllevel. Each keg 14 stores all or part of the data about the kegs 14 inthe cold room, and later when a keg 14 leaves the cold room, the datastored on the transmitter is uploaded to server section 52. This uploadcould occur via a mobile device 38; automatically in the background bycoming into proximity with an app a mobile device 38; automatically whenthe keg 14 encounters a stationary reader outside the cold room; whenthe keg 14 returns to distributor 64 or brewery 20; or by any othersuitable contact with the radio transmitter 16.

FIG. 2 shows an exploded view of one embodiment of the radio transmitter16 of the present disclosure. The assembly of radio transmitter 16includes inner housing 81 which may cover printed circuit board(PCB)/battery assembly 82. Once assembled, inner housing 81 andPCB/battery assembly 82 may be positioned within outer housing 84. Notethat FIGS. 2 through 7 show one possible housing; FIGS. 12 and 13,below, show another possible housing as collar radio transmitter 142.

FIG. 3 shows a three-dimensional view of the PCB and battery assembly ofone embodiment of the present disclosure including components forperforming the disclosed functions. FIG. 3 further shows the generalconstruction for PCB/battery assembly 82 including battery 86, whichaffixes to PCB 94. On the opposite side of a PCB 94 from battery 86appears sensors 90, which includes temperature and other sensors, andantenna 92. CODEC/DSP 96 may also be seen on PCB 88. FIG. 15, below,provides more explanation in detail regarding the electronic circuitryresiding on PCB 94.

Radio transmitter 16 is less than 1″ high so that it fits on bottomchime of keg 14, as shown below in FIG. 11A. The shape of the curve isoptimized to fit three sizes of kegs. Radio transmitter 16 does notextend the boundaries of keg 14 in any dimension. As such, employingdistribution network 10 requires no physical changes to the vendors 30lines, valves, or handles.

Using rechargeable battery 86 allows the radio transmitter 16 to becompletely sealed, where only electrical contacts on the outsideprovided to charge the battery.

Radio transmitter 16 includes a on board temperature sensor to monitorkeg 14 temperature. A shake sensor determines if keg 14 is in transit. Asensor header 91 may also accommodate additional sensors. Antenna 92orientation/polarization maximizes radio transmission strength fromeither the top or the bottom of keg 14. Battery 86 is sized to fit underkeg 14 rim and to get at least a 5-year life. Battery 86 may be solderedto PCB 88 to reduce cost. Distribution network 10 measuring system isnot continuously powered, thus saving power when not takingmeasurements.

FIG. 4 shows and assembled radio transmitter 16 according to theteachings of the present disclosure, wherein width 92 appears less than1 inch in order that radio transmitter 16 may fit on either the top orthe bottom chime of a keg 14. Radio transmitter 16 further includes acurved edge 94 that may fit at least three different types of known keg14 configurations at points along curved edge 94. A single curved backmate to each size keg 14 at different points along the curve, andepoxy/foam tape takes up the small amount of space for each size.Attachment may be by either a rivet, such as at point 96, or by epoxy,such as at space 98, for securely positioning radio transmitter 16 onkeg 14. Waterproof IP67 achieved by epoxy sealing halves as well asbonding to keg 14. This eliminates the need for O-ring or seals. Epoxyrequires no surface preparation, reducing installation time and cost.

Outer housing 84 includes a “break away” layer to allow destructiveprying of the tag loose from epoxy when battery 86 runs out. Airspace ininner housing 80 is minimized to achieve an air tight seal. Use of avery small, long “capillary” tube allows pressure venting if necessarywhile still maintaining waterproofness. Outer housing 84 includes aunique serial number, bar code, QR code, or other coding visible on itsouter side. Note that the outer housing 84 serial number may bedifferent from radio serial number to discourage spoofing. Outer housing84 may include variety of tamper resistant mechanisms for preventingunauthorized removable of radio transmitter 16. Outer housing 84 mayalso include an integrated desiccant container for protecting againstmoisture condensation in varying temperatures.

FIG. 5 depicts an exemplary mode of attaching radio transmitter 16 ofthe present disclosure to keg 14 rim 100. For example, using an epoxylayer 102, attachment of radio transmitter 16 may be secure andwaterproof to protect PCB/batteries assembly 82. Epoxy layer 102 may beapplied to attachment space 98 which provides a small volume into whichan enough proxy may be applied for a firm setting of radio transmitter16 on keg 14 rim 100. By using the same epoxy that mounts housing to keg14 to also seal the joint between housing halves, manufacturing stepscan be skipped. Housing 84 allows radio transmitter 16 to interface withthree-dimensional curved keg 14 surfaces, maximizing adhesion andprotection afforded by keg 14 chime, while minimizing heat transfer fromthe keg 14 body. Housing 84 can be completely sealed but still able tobe turned on when mounted.

An alternate switch configuration using a sticker to seal opening forpin which activates a switch to turn on radio transmitter 16 may beused. In this configuration, a one-time activation is not reversible.Similar pin holes also used to activate “connection mode” formaintenance of radio transmitter 16. Such a sticker may cover hole(s)and make a water tight seal; edges of a sticker protected by inset edgein outer housing 84 cut-away. Alternately, a waterproof on/off switchvia screw can be used which activates hardware switch.

FIG. 6 shows an alternate switch configuration employing the keg 14metal surface to turn on radio transmitter 16. Metal contact pins 104and 106 may appear outside of inner housing 80 for connecting associatedcircuitry on PCB/battery assembly 82 for creating a conductive circuit.That is, contact pin 104 may make electrical contact with keg 14 rim100, which permit electrical current flow to contact pin 106. Theresulting circuit uses minimal voltage, and current to provideindication that radio transmitter 16 is firmly secured on the keg 14 rim100. Note, also, that at attachment point 96, radio transmitter 16 maybe securely positioned on keg 14 rim 100.

Radio transmitter 16 is protected under the existing rolled keg 14 rim100. Pins contacting the metal shell of the keg 14 closes a circuit toactivate a switch. The housing can be completely sealed but still ableto be turned on when mounted. Using a rechargeable battery allows theunit to be completely sealed, and only electrical contacts on theoutside provided to charge the battery. Providing and inductive loop orother contactless charging mechanism allows the electrical penetrationof the housing to be avoided, decreasing manufacturing cost, andallowing less precise interface between housing and charging station.

FIG. 7 shows an exemplary embodiment of an outer housing 84 for holdingand securing the radio transmitter 16 to keg 14 rim 100. In FIG. 7,outer housing 84 secures to keg 14 rim 100 using screws or otherfastening mechanism 108. Inner housing 80 may rest within outer housing84 for securely positioning PCB/battery assembly 82 at keg 14 rim 100.In one embodiment, a permanent seat/shell 84 is permanently attached tokeg 14, and inner housing 16 is a removable portion that can beserviced. Because radio transmitter 16 uniquely identifies the keg 14,distributor 64 and brand, the status of the keg 14 may be automaticallyrelayed to brewery 20 or distributor 64.

FIGUREs SA through SC depict a radio transmitter fixing mechanism forsecuring the radio transmitter of the present disclosure to keg 14 rim100. In the example of FIGUREs SA through SC, a hook mechanism 110 mayengage an existing feature of keg 14, such as the handle opening orchime 114. Chime 114 is a constituent part of a keg 14 including rim100, rolled edge 112 and keg 14 rim wall 114. Attachment mechanism 110may be fixed in position between keg 14 top surface 116 and chime rollededge 112 such that it cannot be removed without releasing the attachmentmechanism. The mechanism expands into the space between rolled rim 112and rim wall 114, and keg 14 body 116 and rim wall 114.

In another instantiation, hook mechanism 120 engages an existing featureon the keg 14 (such as the handle opening or the rim of chime). Inanother instantiation, the radio transmitter 16 attaches to keg 14 likea “secure bracelet” around a chime 122 opening in keg 14 rim 100, hookmechanism 120 is then used to secure back to itself or an extension ofouter housing 84.

Radio transmitter 16 may also be mounted on chime 114 of keg 14, insteadof the keg 14 body 116. The transfer of heat from the keg 14 body tochime 114 is along a seam, so heat transfers slowly and typicalbatteries 86 can be used. Radio transmitter 16 is protected under theexisting rolled keg 14 rim 112 on either the top or bottom of keg 14.PCB/battery assembly 82 is designed to fit in both cases.

For Top Chime

attachment example, button cell batteries may be used. For a bottomchime (shown below), a cylindrical cell battery is used. Outer housing84 has a curved back to mate well with chime 122.

FIG. 9 shows an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure whereinat keg rim 100 radio transmitter 16 may attach using a secure bracelet118. Radio transmitter 16 attaches around keg 14 chime 122 of keg rim114. Bracelet 128 passes through an opening of keg rim wall 114 and backonto itself have a fastening point 120 of radio transmitter outerhousing 84 into which bracelet end 122 secures.

FIG. 10 depicts one embodiment of a fluid level measurement mechanismwhich includes the use of a battery powered ball 124 for determining thevolume of beer 126 within keg 14. In this configuration, hermeticallysealed ball 124 transmits a periodic signal wirelessly or mechanicallythat can be detected through the metal of keg 14. Ball 124 can withstandthe high temperature cleaning cycle and the chemicals used in keg 14preparation for reuse. By placing one or more detection or communicationdevices on the outside of keg 14, such as listening device 128 and/or130, measuring characteristics of the receives signals, e. g., soundreflections, strength, harmonics, etc., the amount of air or liquid inkeg 14 may be determined. Communication can be bi-directional whereinball 124 may receive a signal wirelessly or mechanically transmittingfrom outside of keg 14. Using bi-directional communication, it ispossible for the ball to store data locally; to perform reset functions;to measure received signals and modify the signal and return it back.The attenuation of a received signal due to the ball being in liquid vs.air helps determine volume of liquid in keg 14.

The ball may be battery powered or mechanically powered. An examplemechanical power source could be a wound spring, or the expansion andcontraction caused by the heating/cooling cycle for keg 14. With ameasurement from fluid level measurement mechanism communicated viaradio transmitter 16, distribution network 10 may automatically relayfill data to the correct brewery 20/distributor 64. The Distributionnetwork 10 mechanism requires no changes to the vendors 30 lines,valves, or handles. The Distribution network 10 radio and sensor networkcan automatically relay fill data to the desired brewery 20 and/ordistributor 64.

FIGS. 11A through 11C show various ways of securing embodiments of radiotransmitter 16 and a volume monitoring device of the present disclosure.FIG. 11A shows the fill level detection device being small enough to fiton either top or bottom chine of keg (top preferred) and not directlycontacting main vessel body. FIG. 11B shows the fill level detectiondevice being attached to the outside of the keg, not penetrating themain keg body.

FIG. 11A shows radio transmitter 16 attached at keg 14 bottom 134 on theinner portion of keg 14 lower chime 136. Radio transmitter 16 can behidden under keg 14 lower chime 136, where a person does not see it toknow keg 14 is being tracked. Using the acoustic properties of keg 14,radio transmitter 16 and distribution network 10 may measure liquidlevel from the outside of the keg 14.

FIG. 11B shows one instantiation of flow detection fill sensor 138 foruse with keg 14. In addition to radio transmitter 16, which may affix tosidewall 139 of keg 14, there appears microphone 138 forming part of afill level measurement system for keg 14. Microphone 138 capturesambient noise. The captured ambient noise may be subtracted from thesignal measured from keg 14 to isolate noise coming from inside keg 14.Distribution network 10 sound measuring system isolates acousticmeasurements by using ambient noise cancellation while timingmeasurements to correspond with an acoustic impulse generated by theimmediate keg.

FIG. 11C shows another embodiment of radio transmitter 16 as collarradio transmitter 142. Collar radio transmitter 142 may be placed aroundkeg outlet 144 to measure fluid going through keg outlet 144. Collarradio transmitter 142 may also extend past the top of keg 14, eithersurrounding our extending the connection to keg 14. Collar radiotransmitter 142 may be loose around keg outlet 144 to fall away from thekeg 14 body during sanitation, i.e., when keg 14 is upside down. So,when keg 14 is hot from cleaning, collar radio transmitter 142 does notcontact the main body of keg 14. When keg 14 is returned to an uprightposition, collar radio transmitter 142 falls back in place and contactsthe main body for operational use. When keg 14 is in an uprightposition, collar radio transmitter 142 contacts the main body of keg 14for generating acoustic impulse and/or measuring acoustic properties ofkeg 14. Keg 14 collar radio transmitter 142 may be loose to facilitatecleaning around and below it. By enabling easy cleaning around and belowit, collar radio transmitter 142 allows a keg 14 owner to maintain asterile environment for product entering and exiting keg 14 through kegoutlet 144.

FIG. 11C presents an alternative embodiment of radio transmitter 16 ofthe present disclosure for securing to keg opening 144 at the top of keg14. Collar radio transmitter 142 positions under keg cap 140. Keg cap140 removes by using self-destructive tab 141 which releases cap butalso makes cap unusable by peeling away side of keg cap 140. Collarradio transmitter 142 can sense whether keg cap 140 is present or not.The event of removal of keg cap 140 is used by distribution network 10.By using keg cap 140, distribution network 10 may determine with highprobability if keg 14 has been put on tap. A vendor 30 will usually notremove keg cap 140 until the keg 14 is put on tap, because keg cap 140keeps dirt and food out of the keg opening 144. Collar radio transmitter142 secures to keg opening 144 by way of a friction fit or otherflexible configuration 145 that secures collar radio transmitter 142 tokeg opening 144 and prevents removal unless permitted by an authorizedperson. Such a securing mechanism may be a locking mechanism, ratchetingmechanism, hidden tabs or other friction mechanism that preventsremoving collar radio transmitter 142. By allowing collar radiotransmitter 142 to be locked, distribution network 10 can insure thatcollar radio transmitter 142 is in place, except during maintenance byauthorized person. Collar radio transmitter mates 142 mechanically withthe top surface of keg 14 and the keg opening 144 so that it canwithstand impacts and loadings associated with normal existing handlingof full or empty kegs. Collar radio transmitter 142 does not extend theexisting boundaries of keg 14 so that it may be handled and stackednormally. No changes are required to the vendors 30 lines, valves,handles or processes; distributors 64 pallets or processes; deliverytruck 70 equipment or processes; or the brewery 20 automated fill andcleaning equipment, storage systems or processes.

Collar radio transmitter 142 may also have additional functionalitybeyond functionality residing in the present embodiment of radiotransmitter 16. The additional volume of collar radio transmitter 130makes possible and ever expanding set of functions and supportingelectronics for collar radio transmitter 142 to operates withindistribution network 10.

FIG. 12 illustrates an embodiment of an authenticated attachmentmechanism 160 for securing radio transmitter 16 to keg 14. Authenticatedattachment mechanism 160 provides a secure attachment of radiotransmitter 16 to keg 14, while allowing nondestructivedetaching/replacement by only authorized parties.

Authenticated attachment mechanism 160 operates within radio transmitter16 outer housing 84 and attaches to hook and catch 162. Mechanical hookand catch 162 provides a permanent fixture for securing radiotransmitter 16 to keg 14. The hook 162 is hidden from externaltampering—only an internal actuator (electromagnet, motor, etc.) candisengage the hook. Engagement arm 164 inserts into recess 166 with aspring force from spring 168. Engagement arm 164 actuates under controlof actuator 170 to withdraw from recess 166 in response to a signal fromCPU 172. Antenna 174 may receive an actuation signal from an externalsource for actuating engagement arm 164 under the control of CPU 172.Battery 86 may provide actuation power for CPU 172 operation to controlactuator 170. Authenticated attachment mechanism 160 further providesexternal voltage pads 180 that permit electric power to enter outerhousing 84, allowing the internal actuator circuit to be poweredtemporarily in the event of batter failure or for charging rechargeablebattery 86. These pins are electrically isolated from the battery toprevent current leakage. Alternatively, digital connection 182 mayprovide an optional digital signal input for control of CPU 172 foractuator operation.

Authenticated attachment mechanism 160 allows a distributor 64 or vendor30 or event venue 32 to place radio transmitter 16 on kegs 14 only whilethey are in their possession and remove them before kegs are returnedand no longer in their possession. Authenticated attachment mechanism160 may require a secret digital passkey to actuate engagement arm 164.A digital secure key is transmitted to radio transmitter 16 wirelesslyvia antenna 174. CPU 172 verifies the digital secure key by severalpossible means. By using a digital key as opposed to a mechanical key,no water entry points are introduced into outer housing 84, the space ofa mechanical key is avoided, and manufacturing cost is reduced. By usinga digital key, every keg 14 may can have a unique digital lock code, anddigital keys are easy to manage using software.

A secure mechanism requiring a secret digital passkey is used to latchradio transmitter 16 to keg 14. By using a digital key, no water entrypoints are introduced, the space of a mechanical key is avoided, andmanufacturing cost is reduced. By using a digital key, every keg 14 canhave a unique digital lock code, and keys are easy to manage usingsoftware. Breaking one lock does not expose any other locks.

FIG. 13 presents a radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190 blockdiagram according to a preferred embodiment of the presently disclosedsystem. Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190 includesradio/processing module 96 which connects to temperature sensor 192 andCODEC/DSP 194. The analog-to-digital circuit (ADC) 196 ofradio/processing module 96 receives output 198 from temperature sensor192. Also, through general purpose input/output (GPIO) 200,radio/processing module 96 provides collector voltage (VCC) 202 totemperature sensor 192. At VCC 204, rechargeable battery 86 provides 2-to 3-volt operating power to radio/processing module 96. CODEC/DSP 194interfaces radio/processing module 96 at inter-integrated circuit/serialperipheral interface (12C/SPI) 206 of radio processing module 96 with12C/SPI interface 208. Through inter-integrated circuit sound/generalpurpose input-out (12S/GPIO) interface 210, radio/processing module 96interfaces 12S/GPIO interface 212 of CODEC/DSP 194. CODEC/DSP 194connects to transducer 148 via digital to analog converter interface(DAC) 214. Also, CODEC/DSP 194 interfaces microphone/sensor 150 at ADCinterface 216. Antenna 174 provides provide input to Rf Interface 218.

Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190 leverages mobile devices 38to 42 and stationary readers 36 of distribution network 10 to not needseparate GPS and cell radio circuitry. The result is that radiotransmitter 16 achieves a production cost of approximately $10 or less.Moreover, for operation of distribution network 10, radio transmitter 16does not require a monthly cell data plan, has a small form factor, andmay run five years on typical lithium battery cells. By operating fiveyears, radio transmitter 16 allows distribution network 10 to align withthe normal five-year service cycle of kegs 14 from most breweries anddistributors. The radio design of radio transmitter 16 also may workinside stacks of metal kegs, as discussed in more detail below.

Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190 includes firmware capable ofoperating in several modes. Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190operates in a non-connectable mode upon deployment security and batterylife preservation. Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190 enters aconnectable mode only either temporarily during boot or via switch/padon PCB 88. Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190 operates in aconnectable mode that is protected by asymmetric encryption andauthentication and provides authenticated pairing without bonding. Radiotransmitter electronic circuitry 190 operates in a mode for pairing apasscode that is generated algorithmically based upon broadcasted major,minor numbers and shared secret. This mode may optionally use timestamp,serial number of board, etc. Radio transmitter electronic circuitry 190may further operate in a connectable mode for updating the radiotransmitter 16 serial number and other parameters after manufacturing,but before deployment.

Distribution network 10 accommodates a variety of roles for variousdevices/components. Such devices include radio transmitter 16, collarradio transmitter 142, stationary reader 36, mobile devices 38 and 60,server computers 56, and RMS section computers 62. Here functions aredescribed as appropriate for the various devices/components capable ofperforming such functions.

A device operating as a central device scans for advertisers and caninitiate connections. Such a device operates as a master in one or moreconnections. Good examples are mobile devices 38 and computers 62. Thismeans that the device roles used for established connections are theperipheral and the central roles. The other two device roles are usedfor one-directional communication. A broadcaster function applies to anon-connectable advertiser, for example, a temperature sensor 192 thatbroadcasts the current temperature, or a radio transmitter 16. Anobserver function scans for advertisements, but cannot initiateconnections. This could be a remote display on a mobile device 38 thatreceives the temperature data and presents it, or tracking the radiotransmitter 16.

The two important device roles for radio transmitter 16 applications areperipheral and broadcaster. Both send the same type of advertisementsexcept for one specific flag that indicates if it is connectable ornon-connectable. A Bluetooth low energy solution is ideal for radiotransmitter 16, because it is low power and the eco-system is alreadydeployed in most smartphones or other Bluetooth Smart Ready enableddevices on the market. The low-power consumption is achieved by keepingthe transmission time as short as possible and allowing the device to gointo sleep mode between the transmissions.

The non-connectable radio transmitter 16 is a Bluetooth low energydevice in broadcasting mode. It simply transmits information that isstored internally. Because the non-connectable broadcasting does notactivate any receiving capabilities, it achieves the lowest possiblepower consumption by simply waking up, transmit data and going back tosleep. This comes with the drawback of dynamic data being restricted towhat is only known to the device, or data being available throughexternal input from example serial protocols (universal asynchronousreceiver/transmitter (UART), serial peripheral interface (SPI),universal serial bus (USB), and so forth).

The connectable radio transmitter 16 is a Bluetooth low energy device inperipheral mode, which means that it cannot only transmit, but alsoreceive as well. This allows a central device (for example, a mobiledevice 38) to connect and interact with services implemented on radiotransmitter 16. Services provide one or more characteristics that couldbe modified by a peer device. One example of these characteristic couldbe a string of data that represents the broadcasted information. Thisway, it is possible to have a configurable radio transmitter 16 that iseasily updated over the air.

FIGS. 14A and 14B portray various hardware for use on a delivery truckoperating within distribution network 10 of the present disclosure.Truck 70 may be any type of delivery truck capable of deliveringnumerous kegs 14 for populating keg 14 section 12 of liquid productdistribution network 10. In delivery section 68, truck 70 also includesthe ability to interface with radio transmitter 16 or collar radiotransmitter 142.

The interface for which truck 70 is capable derives from truck reader230 which may be positioned beneath seat 232. Truck reader 230 is acommunications device that connects with various antenna including cellantenna 234 or Bluetooth antenna 236, for example. Moreover, truck 70may use GPS antenna 238, OBD2 connection 240, and/or Wi-Fi antenna 242.FIG. 14B shows an alternative configuration whereby tablet 244 mayprovide various functions associated with controlling deliveryoperations and monitoring delivery operations consistent with theoptimal operations of liquid product distribution network 10.

If truck 70 is parked in range of home office Wi-Fi, updates can bebatch downloaded via Wi-Fi when truck 70 returns to home office. Thismay save cell phone data charges. Hardware is designed with a mainprocessor in a housing with the GPS antenna 238, Wi-Fi antenna 242,Bluetooth antenna 236 and cellular connection either located internallyor externally via wires to enable remote antenna placement. Truck reader230 optionally connects to vehicle's OBD2 connection 240 for powerand/or diagnostic data. Each of the four antennas can be internal orexternal—external via wires allows flexible placement.

Truck reader 230 allows real-time inventory by putting the antennas atthe end of wires. Truck reader 230 main unit can be hidden and/or madesecure under the dash or seats 232. By connecting the ODB2 port 240 intruck 70, truck reader 230 is easy to install and can collect mileage,speed and other data from the vehicle. By integrating Wi-Fi antenna 242,truck reader 230 may perform a “store and forward” function ofcollecting data during the day and automatically download it at nightwhen truck 70 returns to base. Wi-Fi antenna 242 may also operate as aWi-Fi access point inside truck 70. As such, tablet 244, for example,may have an internet connection as truck 70 drives around. The truck 70driver's cellular phone can also use Wi-Fi antenna 242 to incorporatesecurity, logging and firewall features.

Using truck 70 as a Wi-Fi access point, truck reader 230 may sendmessages, alerts, instructions, new routes to the driver in real time.As a Wi-Fi access point, truck 70 may connect a display to the tablet244 to display maps, instructions, alerts and other data to the driver.Truck reader 230 system acts as a knowledge base for delivery drivers,enabling them to keep track of information they need to make deliveries.Such information may include instructions on where to park, lock codesor access codes, best time of day to make deliveries, customer contactsand instructions, etc. Distribution network 10 system may use truckreader 230 to provide real-time monitoring of trucks and drivers. Forexample, truck reader 230 may permit determining which driver is nearestto a required delivery, whether drivers stay on their routes or makeunscheduled stops, etc.

Truck reader 230 may act as a Wi-Fi hotspot, allowing connected clientsto access the Internet over the cell modem connection. Normal Wi-Fipassword protection and encryption is used to prevent unauthorized useof the connection. When acting as a Wi-Fi hotspot, tablet 244 is used asthe screen/GUI. This allows sophisticated mapping, routing, invoicingand other functions to be written on the tablet and integrated withtruck reader 230 sensor data.

The truck reader 230 may function independently of any mobile devices(phones, tablets) in truck 70. Software on truck reader 230 and ontablet 244 can communicate with each other and divide computation,communication, and display processing. Depending on tablet 244capability, truck reader 230 offloads functions to the tablet, andvice-versa. For example, 244 includes a cell modem connection to theInternet, software on tablet 244 may receive keg 14 data and transmitssuch data to server section 52 of distribution network 10.

Truck reader 230 software may determine when kegs 14 come in range(i.e., get loaded on vehicle) or go out of range (i.e., are deliveredfrom truck 70). By accessing the known history of a keg 14 from radiotransmitter 16, truck reader 230 may determine whether an empty is beingpicked up or a full being delivered. Truck reader 230 allows real-timeinventory of a truck. By putting the antennas at the end of wires, truckreader 230 may be hidden and/or made secure under the dash or seats. Byconnecting the ODB2 port 240 in truck 70, truck reader 230 is easy toinstall and can collect mileage, speed and other data from truck 70.

Hand-offs between radio transmitters 16 and locations can determinestate changes. For example, if a keg 14 was detected by a cold roomstationary reader 36, but then is no longer detected by that stationaryreader 36, and then is detected by truck reader 230, might cause a statechange to “being delivered.”

As further example, distribution network 10 system may have determined akeg 14 has been delivered to a vendor 30, such as a restaurant or bar,but may not know which vendor 30 or exactly when. When a mobile device38 detects the presence of the keg 14 at a location, distributionnetwork 10 then determines which vendor 30 the keg 14 went to, and canretroactively determine the delivery schedule and other informationbecause it now knows which vendor 30 received the keg 14.

Distribution network 10 software reports truck 70 driver activity backto a distributor 64 home office, which information may includeunscheduled stops, driving speed, etc. Distribution network 10 softwareallows remote management and monitoring of truck reader 230. When atruck 70 driver visits a known account, the last inventory at theaccount can be viewed by the driver on tablet 244, for example.Distribution network 10 software automatically manages depositinformation, such as how many kegs 14 are at each keg 14 section 12location, and determines that keg 14 section 12 location's rollingdeposit fee. The deposit information automatically propagates back toinvoices, accounting, etc. and may be used as a double check against thetruck 70 driver's entered data.

FIG. 15 provides various example events that may influence thetransition of keg 14 states as monitored kegs 14 18 move from variousgeographic regions in distribution network 10. In FIG. 15, kegs 14 A, B,and C, represent the liquid product containers within keg 14 section 12.Items 1 30 through 7 254 represent various mobile devices 30 andstationary readers 36, etc. Region X 244, region Y 246, and region Z 248represent geographic regions participating within distribution network10.

By collecting data on the location and history of kegs 14 and handles,distribution network 10 determines state transitions. Some of the statetransitions are determined retroactively. For example, a lack ofreadings after a period of time may retroactively determine a statetransition that occurred at the beginning of the period. Hand-offsbetween radio transmitters 16, stationary readers 36, and mobile devices38 can determine state changes. For example, a keg 14 that was detectedby a cold room stationary reader 36, but then is no longer detected bythat stationary reader 36, then is detected by a truck reader 230, mightcause a state change to “being delivered.”

Distribution network 10 may have determined a keg 14 has been deliveredto a vendor 30 (i.e., customer such as restaurant/bar), but may not knowwhich vendor 30 or exactly when. When a mobile device 38detects/contacts the presence of the keg 14 at a location, distributionnetwork 10 then determines which vendor 30 received the keg, and canretroactively determine the delivery schedule and other informationbecause it now knows which vendor 30 received the keg 14.

Using the store and forward function, a mobile device 38 may downloadhistorical information from the radio transmitter 16 when it detects theradio transmitter 16 at a vendor 30. Using mesh network 18 and store andforward at a vendor 30, an arriving keg 14 18 can communicate itsarrival to the other kegs 14 at the vendor 30. When one of the olderkegs 14 leaves the vendor 30 and returns to the brewery 20, it forwardsthe information from the keg 14 that newly arrived while it was at thevendor 30.

Because radio transmitter 16 uniquely identifies the keg 14, distributorand brand, the status of the keg 14 can be automatically relayed to thebrewery 20 and/or distributor 64. The distribution network 10 mechanismfor determining how full is each keg 14 attaches to the keg 14 and doesnot require shifting of kegs 14 on scales. Distribution network 10 usesthe communications of radio transmitter 16 and stationary reader37/mobile device 38 to automatically relay fill data to the correctbrewery 20 and/or distributor 64.

Referring further to FIG. 15, distribution network 10 performsparticularly attractive operations upon entering or exiting a geographicregion. Geographic regions are defined such that when a sensing device36/38 is within a region locates or otherwise detects a radiotransmitter 16, the keg 14 to which the radio transmitter 16 attachesmay be considered to have “entered” the geographic region. This decisionmay be based upon the relative locations of both the keg 14 and thesensing device 36/38 relative to the Region.

In FIG. 18, keg 14 A 14 is detected by sensing device 36/381 to beinside Region X; likewise keg B 14 is detected by sensing device 36/38 7to be inside Region Y. If a sensing device 36/38 is determined to be ina region, but items are not detected, then any items that werepreviously determined to be in the region may be determined to have“exited” the region. In FIG. 15, sensing device 36/38 5 is inside RegionZ but keg C 14 is not detected. Hysteresis may be applied to allow timefor keg C 14 to be detected or not detected. Stationary reader 36/mobiledevice 38 6 can detect keg C 14, but is not within a defined geographicregion, so sensing device 36/38 6 confirms keg C 14 is no longer inRegion Z. At any given time, a sensing device 36/38 may be able todetect or not detect multiple kegs 14, and may be in or not in anynumber of (possibly overlapping) regions.

Depending on the geographic region the detection occurs within, how faraway from the sensing device 36/38 the keg 14 is determined, etc., thedistribution network 10 software determines which state transitionsshould occur. A geographic location can be determined by severalfactors: the GPS reading on a sensing device 36/38; the Wi-Fi networkthe sensing device 36/38 is near or connected to; being “near” toanother sensing device 36/38 that has a predicted location; detection ofwireless networks or topologies, triangulation using signal strength,etc.

Triangulation can be used to pinpoint location. For example, thereceived signal strengths of a radio transmitter 16 at one or morereceiving stations are correlated to determine the most accuratelocation of the transmitter in relation to the stations. The receivingstations may be nodes in a wireless distribution network, and thereforeknowing the node and received signal strength at that node allowsdetermination of a probability distribution for the location of theradio transmitter 16. This probability distribution can be influenced byadditional data such as known locations of buildings or otherinterference structures, data packet loss, vehicle speed, receivedsignal strength of additional transmitters, relative location of othernearby items, “crowdedness” of items, etc.

In some cases, the location of a sensing device 36/38 may be assigned astatic location (for example, if the sensing device 36/38 is notexpected to move). In this case, any items coming within a certaindistance of the sensor could change cause a state change for the item.

Distribution network 10 software has a programming interface throughwhich it can retrieve and/or receive updates from other systems or inputmethods. These updates may cause a change in state. Example systems andinput methods are

automated assembly lines; content filling systems; point of salesystems; shipping and receiving systems; etc. The data from these inputmethods may be combined with any of the other detection mechanisms toreach a conclusion. For example, if the shipping system indicates fivekegs 14 were picked up, and simultaneously five items were detected toleave a geographic region, then distribution network 10 may decide thosefive kegs 14 were the kegs 14 picked up, and add the serial numbers ofthe kegs 14 to the shipping invoice.

Keg 14 serial numbers can be automatically and accurately correlatedwith no manual labor. Deposits can be automatically and accuratelycorrelated with no manual counting. Inventory is maintained accuratelyand automatically with no manual counting. Keg 14 contents, fill dates,etc., can be easily looked up using a normal mobile phone without anymanual scanning or searching. Kegs 14 can be automatically andaccurately flagged for service based upon number of turns in the field.Distribution network 10 automatically reports back where each keg 14 isand how full it is without any manual checking. By collecting data onthe location and history of kegs 14 and/or handles, distribution network10 system determines state transitions. Some of the state transitionsare determined retroactively. For example, a lack of readings after ashort while may retroactively determine a state transition that occurredat the beginning of the period.

FIG. 16 shows the arrangement of various kegs 14 on an exemplaryweighing mat 250 for use in distribution network 10. The mat may beconstructed to have predetermined locations for kegs, or allow kegs tobe arbitrarily positioned. On weighing mat 250 appear predetermined keg14 locations 252 on which to store a keg 14. Design 254 depicts the useof a distributor 64 or brewery 20 logos upon which to position keg 14.Design 254 indicates that the keg 14 contains beer of the company whoselogo appears on mat location 252.

Weighing mat 250 provides a thin, stationary cushion or surface uponwhich may be placed under one or more kegs 14 and integrates withshelving (or the floor) unobtrusively. Weight mat 250 allows kegs 14 tobe shifted around arbitrarily within a cold room or other keg 14 section12 location. Weight mat 250 may integrate branding so that a given typeof keg 14 is correlated to location 252. A brewery 20 can sponsor theirportion of weighing mat 250, allowing the total area of weighing mat 250to build up over time. Weighing mat 250 determines wirelessly usingradio transmitter 16 where kegs 14 are on weighing mat 250, to determinewhich exact keg 14 is being weighed. Weighing mat 250 has a low profile(less than 1″) so that existing vendor 30 shelving units can be used.Weighing mat 250 preferably has a sloped front edge so that kegs 14 maybe easily slid a top surface. Weight mat 250 may have one or moreridges/grooves corresponding to multiple keg 14 sizes or layoutpositions. Weight mat 250 does not have to be square, and may be roundor hexagonal to facilitate densely packing kegs 14 in many differentvarieties of cold room spaces.

Areas of weighing mat 250 that may be printed with a supplier's logohelp a vendor 30 keep track of which kegs 14 go to which draft handlesinside a bar. Logo 254 also allows a brewery 20 or distributor 64 togive/sponsor a weighing mat 250 when the vendor 30 signs up for asupplier account. Weighing mat 250 easily mates to adjacent mats so kegs14 may be slid front to back across weighing mats 250 and side to sideacross weighing mats 250. The edges of weighing mat 250 can incorporateelectrical connections to transmit data between weighing mats 250.Weighing mat 250 may be sized to accommodate several kegs 14 on a singleweighing mat 250, each keg 14 being weighed separately. Weighing mat 250determines wirelessly using radio transmitter 16 where kegs 14 are onthe mat, to determine which exact keg 14 is being weighed.

Using store and forward, a mobile device 38 may download historicalinformation from the radio transmitter 16 when radio transmitter 16detects mobile device 38 at a vendor 30. Using the mesh network 18 andstore and forward at a vendor 30, an arriving keg 14 can communicate itsarrival to the other kegs 14 at the vendor. When one of the older kegs14 18 leaves the vendor 30 and returns to the brewery 20, mesh network18 forwards the information from the keg 14 that newly arrived while itwas at the vendor 30.

FIG. 17 illustrates improved keg 14 use, monitoring, and reportingbetween operations that occur in a cold room 278 and operations thatoccur in a public room 279, such as a restaurant or other location. FIG.17 shows the interaction between cold room 278 of keg 14 section 12wherein mesh network 18 of kegs 14 may be positioned over weighing mat250 for reporting and communicating with public room 279 to providecorrelation between the operation of tap handles 260 in public room 279and beer kegs 14 within keg 14 section 12 of cold room 278.Alternatively, keg 14 collar 142 may provide the functions of weighingmat 250 instead. Moreover, within public room 279, there is anindication of a transaction that distribution network 10 enables topromote a point of sale (POS) 262 transaction. The POS transaction makesuse of the information relating to the status of kegs 14 within coldroom 278 and provides input for users to make purchasing and otherdecisions regarding consuming different beers according to the status ofkegs 14.

By correlating the decrease in keg 14 levels with an increase in drinkpurchases, distribution network 10 enables determining which consumers66 purchased from which keg 14. Once the keg 14 is determined, then itis possible to know brewery 20, type of beer, date brewed, etc. asherein disclosed.

By correlating consumer 66 location against keg 14 location, it ispossible to notify the consumer 66 when a keg 14 of their favorite beergoes on tap 260; where is the nearest public room 279 to purchase thatglass of beer; how long that beer is likely to be on tap 260, i.e., howfull is the keg 14, or if the keg 14 is no longer available, as well ashow fresh is the beer, by when it was brewed.

When a limited supply keg 14 goes on tap 260, the action of the handlebeing placed on the faucet 260 can trigger alerts to consumer 66indicating the keg 14 is now available. Distribution network 10 canindicate other beers currently available on tap that are similar to whatconsumer 66 likes/has purchased before/what their friend likes/whatothers are drinking/what is popular/what is freshest/what has agedlongest/what is seasonal or special/what is from a local brewery 20/whatis from a faraway brewery 20/what has special ingredients/what is oflimited supply.

Distribution network 10 can indicate other beers currently being soldvia a handle on a faucet 260 that are similar to what consumer 66likes/has purchased before/etc. thereby introducing consumer 66 to newbreweries. Distribution network 10 can indicate the brew date of eachbeer, how long it has aged, how long it has been on tap, etc.

Distribution network 10 can recommend locations based upon beer typesavailable. When a consumer 66 enters a public room 279 using POSfunction 262, the fact that the consumer 66 is within range of akeg/handle 14 is determined. This is used to determine when consumer 66arrived and/or departed the location and can be correlated to themarketing done to that consumer 66. By correlating consumer 66 purchaseof product against marketing done to consumer 66, it is possible todetermine marketing effectiveness. The effectiveness can be calculatedautomatically, and future selection of marketing messages or processesdetermined automatically.

By correlating decreased keg 14 levels with drink purchases, it ispossible to determine which consumer 66 purchased from which keg. Oncethe keg 14 is determined, it is then known brewery, type of beer, datebrewed, etc.

By correlating consumer 66 location against keg 14 location, it ispossible to notify consumer 66 (1) when a keg 14 of their favorite beergoes on tap; (2) the nearest location to purchase a glass of beer; (3)how long the beer is likely to be on tap (i.e. how empty the keg 14 is);(4) the keg 14 is no longer available; (5) how fresh the beer is (i.e.when it was brewed)

When a limited supply keg 14 goes on tap, the action of going on tap(i.e. the handle going on the faucet) can trigger alerts to consumer 66s indicating the brand represented by keg/handle 14 is now available.Distribution network 10 can indicate other products currently availableon tap that are similar to what consumer 66 likes or has purchasedbefore; what friends of consumer 66 like; what other consumers 66 aredrinking; what is popular at this location or nearby; what is freshestat this location or nearby; what product has aged longest; what productis seasonal or special; what product is from a local brewery; whatproduct is from a faraway brewery; what product has special or specificingredients; what product is of limited supply; etc.

Distribution network 10 can indicate other beers currently available ontap (i.e., other handles being used) that are similar to what consumer66 likes/has purchased before/etc. thereby introducing consumer 66 tonew breweries. Distribution network 10 can indicate the brew date ofeach beer, how long it has aged, how long it has been on tap, etc.

Distribution network 10 can recommend locations based upon beer typesavailable. When consumer 66 enters a location/event using Distributionnetwork 10 kegs, the fact that consumer 66 is within range of a keg 14is determined. This is used to determine when consumer 66 arrived and/ordeparted the location and can be correlated to the marketing done tothat consumer 66.

A brewery can allow consumer 66 to “sponsor” a keg/handle 14 such thatthe consumer 66 is notified where the keg 14 travels, when it arriveslocations, etc. If the consumer 66 wants to sponsor a keg 14 with acertain type of beer only, a container can be allocated to hissponsorship at every brewing, so it appears he “owns” a specific keg,even if the actual container is different at each brewing. This allows abrewery to rotate their kegs 14 normally while still allowing theconsumer 66 to perceive they are sponsoring a single keg.

FIG. 18 depicts an exemplary stationary reader 36 for radio transmitter16 detection and measurement according to the present disclosure.Stationary reader 36 includes yellow LED 270 and red LED 272. Stationaryreader 36 preferably mounts upon a wall, such as within cold room 278 orat a different location. Stationary reader 36 preferably does not have ascreen, but is managed through a mobile device 38 application. LEDs 270and 272 indicate the state of the stationary reader 36. A Red LED 272reports whether stationary reader 36 is powered on and connected toInternet 54. A Yellow LED 270 indicate keg 14 sensing is active usingradio transmitter 16 or collar radio transmitter 142, and, duringinitial setup, indicates that stationary reader 36 is ready to receive aWi-Fi password.

If stationary reader 36 does not have a current connection to theInternet, a peer-to-peer connection (for example, via Bluetooth) mayperform the necessary connection. Stationary reader maintains aconnection to the Internet and actively seeks to re-establish theconnection, if the connection goes down. Proximity reads to kegs 14 aretaken continuously. If the Internet 54 connection goes down, the readsare spooled to a local buffer sensors/data collection section 34, andwhen the Internet 54 connection returns the spooled data is transmittedto server computer 56. The data is compressed before being encrypted,authenticated and sent to server.

Each stationary reader 36 in distribution network 10 possesses a uniqueidentifier, and a unique asymmetrical encryption key. Only a mobiledevice 38 having the other half of the asymmetrical key is authorized tomanage the stationary reader 36.

The asymmetrical key is retrieved from a server computer 56, is not keptpermanently on mobile device 38, and has only per-session usage rights.

FIG. 19 shows the arrangement of a fill reader in association with coldroom 278 or other location for detecting and reporting the condition ofa plurality of kegs 14. FIG. 19 further includes use of a mobile reader274 which may be used on a stand 276 in proximity to mesh network 18 ofkegs 14 within a cold room 278.

FIG. 20 illustrates conceptually the use of tap handles as a trackingmechanism for beer or other liquid dispensing flow according to theteachings of the present disclosure. The present invention describes asystem and mechanism for remotely tracking and monitoring use of a taphandle and associated beverage dispensing systems.

Referring to FIG. 20, tap handles 277 are provided free of charge tovending outlets to advertise the brand of beer currently on tap. Forexample, when a restaurant decides to carry a new brand, the distributoror brewery will provide a tap handle 277 for use by the restaurant whenpouring that beer. The tap handle advertises the beer on tap, and alsoacts as a handle to dispense beverage through 279 faucet.

Laws dictate tap handle 277 ownership remains with the supplier, not thevending outlet. As part of the laws enacted around the three-tiersystem, a vendor does not own the handle—it is on loan free of chargefor use in promoting a brand. Because enforcement is by law and not bycontract, vendor return of tap handles is not easy to enforce (i.e. thebrewery/distributor must prove the vendor still has the handle).

Tap handles 277 often go missing. When taken off a tap 279, a handle 277might be placed in a box under the bar; put on display in some area ofthe restaurant; misplaced; thrown away; put in storage; taken home by anemployee; given to a patron. When the brewery or distributor comes toretrieve the handle, often the vendor does not know where the handle is;or the area where the handle is stored is not accessible (i.e. in amanager's office, etc.). Because the distributor/brewery does not knowwhen the handle goes on the faucet and when it comes off, there isalways a time interval between when the handle 277 is not being used andwhen the brewery/distributor tries to pick it up—increasing thelikelihood that it will get lost.

In the industry, there are no established solutions for a supplier toremotely measure activity on a tap handle, such as how many times abartender has “pulled” on the handles to dispense a beverage. Flowmeters exist to measure flow of beverage through the lines connectingthe container to the faucet, giving an indirect measurement of handleuse. Such flow data, however, is collected locally for use by thevendor, and no established networks or processes exists to transfer suchdata back to distributors and/or breweries in real-time.

There is a need for a system able to remotely track tap handles 277.Such a system would allow handle pulls to be collected remotely andcommunicated to all interested parties—vendors. Accordingly, FIG. 21shows how tap handle 281 of the present disclosure may be constructed toachieve liquid dispensing measuring and reporting. Typical tap handle281 parts include handle 283, marker 285, hanger bolt 287, ferrule 289,faucet lever 291, bolt 293, faucet/tap 295, from distributors andbreweries. It an easy determination of whether handle 281 is still inthe vendor's premises. This provides encouragement to the vendor toreturn handle 281. Making handle 281 trackable further allows adistributor/brewery to be notified immediately when handle 281 is takenoff a faucet 295 so it may be retrieved.

The present disclosure provides a small tap flow monitoring andreporting apparatus 301 that may be attached to or incorporated into taphandle 281. Tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 makespossible tracking location and measuring remote use of tap handle 281 ata plurality of locations. Tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus301 is capable of storing sensed conditions for downloading later. Tapflow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 may also communicate withother Tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301, on a peer-to-peerbasis.

FIGS. 22 through 26 depict various alternative embodiments of tap handleflow measuring and reporting apparatus 301 of the presently disclosedmethod and system. Tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 isable to visit a plurality of locations. In particular, the exact retailoutlet(s) tap handle 281 will be used at are not known ahead of time. Noconfiguration or installation needs to happen at the remote retaillocation. Tap handle 281 can move from location to location with noinstallation or configuration required at each one.

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301works with the liquid distribution networks herein described and in U.S.Pat. No. 10,083,431 to track handle 281 as it changes location.Connection to an everyday typical personal mobile device is automaticand happens automatically, no manual configuration or interactionrequired.

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 mayalso be able to communicate directly without use of the above-referencednetwork. Tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 is small enoughto be incorporated into tap handle 281 itself. Meaning, it can be usedwithout modifying the exterior dimensions of the handle.

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301battery life is at least 2 years and could be up to five or more years,depending on the battery in use. The device is auto correlated to thebeverage being dispensed, since the tap handle is made to advertise thatbeverage (meaning, the tap handle advertises a brand, and probably aspecific type of beer. If the handle is installed, it means that brandof beer is being served. The system can automatically know what brand ison tap). It does not matter which faucet and line the beverage getsattached to.

Coordination with the remote restaurant is not required. The remoterestaurant may not use the tracking information—it can be collectedanyways. The restaurant might not even know it is being collected. Thepeople using tap handle 281, i.e., restaurant, distributor, etc., maynot know it is being tracked, due to the potential identical form factorto conventional tap handles. Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring andreporting apparatus 301 determines if the handle is on the faucet or noton the faucet. Tap handle 281 is in different states—in warehouse, indistribution chain; on faucet in a restaurant; in drawer in arestaurant. The sensing continues to operate even if the handle is noton the faucet. In addition, it detects what state it is in—whether it ison a faucet or in a drawer.

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 isnot just measuring the activity of the faucet. Knowing that tap handle281 is not being used on a faucet is important. Tap handle 281 with tapflow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 provides importantinformation even without being connected to the tap/faucet 295 andproduct dispensing system. If tap handle 281 is not on the faucet, itmeans the brand is no longer being served (this could be because the kegran out, or some other reason). For a distributor or vendor, this meansthey should visit the account.

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 doesnot just measure product dispensing. This is because knowing the handleis not measuring (i.e. is in a drawer) is just as important as measuringproduct flow. Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reportingapparatus 301 may detect when the tap handle has left thebuilding—knowing it has left the building is important. This could occurif the restaurant has lost or otherwise parted with tap handle 281.

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301measures uses, and thereby indirectly product dispensing. When combinedwith keg tracking system of the present disclosure, tap handle 281 withtap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 provides a complete viewof what is happening with kegs and fluid. When combined with a digitalmenu system, tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reportingapparatus 301 can provide automatic update of products being served(handle goes on faucet means brand is available for purchase).

Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301could automatically update a website with product being sold atlocation, with no configuration needed at vending outlet. When combinedwith a digital menu system, tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring andreporting apparatus 301 can interactively show product sales (brandlights up as handle is used). When combined with a point-of-sale record,tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 canprovide a measure of product “shrink” (sales should match handle use—anypours made without a corresponding POS entry means the product was givenaway).

Since tap handle 281 knows when it goes on and off the faucet, it canprovide indication of lines being properly cleaned (the handle will comeoff during non-peak hours and then put back on). This is a way to doublecheck remotely that line cleaning procedures are being followedregularly.

When more than one tap handle 281 is being tracked at a vending outlet,relative sales data is available to distributors and breweries (i.e.,how does one brand sell when another brand is also being sold)? Thisdata normally exists in POS of restaurant, but not available todistributor/brewery. It is not necessary to get vendor's permission tocollect this data.

Tracking location helps determine where lost handles 281 are located andprevent them from being lost or misplaced in distribution chain.Provides accountability to employees and accounts. Tracking location canhelp a supplier (brewery, distributor) rotate out old versions ofhandles. Often kegs are sold and not put on tap right away (go intostorage). The handle tracker allows supplier to know when a keg theyhave previously sold actually goes on tap and is being sold.

Various physical embodiments of tap handle 281 are within the scope ofthe present disclosure, and appearing here at FIGS. 22 through 26. Thesemay include tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 beingembedded in a cavity inside tap handle 281. FIG. 25 shows Tap handle 281with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 embedded insideferrule on bottom of tap handle. Moreover, a ferrule containing atracker can be retrofitted to any existing handle which has a hangerbolt. Tap handle 281 with tap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus301 can also be retrofitted to any existing handle which has an“internal ferrule” using an adapter thread.

FIG. 27 presents a circuit block diagram 305 of the radio transmitterarchitecture for the presently disclosed tap handle flow measuring andreporting apparatus according to a preferred embodiment. The circuitblock diagram shows RTC (real time clock) 307, flash 309 for off-chipmemory storage, level sensor 311 determines position of handle and itstilt off axis, and mount detector 313 determines if tap handle 281 ismounted on faucet bolt 293. I2C 315 provides a communications bus andSPI 317 provides a communications bus. GPIO 319 provides ageneral-purpose input output. Additional sensors are possible to beadded, such as temperature, acoustic, vibration, GPS, cell modem, lights(i.e. handle lights up when used), infrared, etc. Further components oftap flow monitoring and reporting apparatus 301 include Rf and antennacircuit 321, and Vcc voltage supply 323 from battery 325.

Another possibility is handles use infrared, directional antennas, othersignal propagation measurement to determine their position relative toone another. The handle knows it is in position 1 of 10 for example.This could be important data for marketing purposes, or for tying handleuse to line use (along with line use to keg use), for checking that taphandle 281 is on the correct line, etc.

FIG. 28 shows a circuit diagram of the tap handle flow measuring andreporting apparatus of the present disclosure. A low costomni-directional gravity switch 331 appears at FIG. 28. Switch 331presents a low profile and may be constructed to add no more height to aprinted circuit board (PCB) than other components. This is to becompared to normal omnidirectional gravity switches which have extraheight. Switch 331 may be configured with multiple segments 333 (shownhere with six) to provide variably precise omnidirectional readings.Lower number of segments 333 requires fewer processor GPIO 319 inputs;higher number of segments 333 requires higher number of GPIO 319 inputs.Using six segments 333 means when a tap handle is actuated in a verticalplane, there will always be an “empty” segment to separate “on” vs“off”. It is also possible to construct using less segments with atradeoff in cost of manufacture vs accuracy. Can be built using standardmetal shield materials.

FIG. 29 illustrates the connecting circuitry 335 of the presentlydisclosed tap handle 281 measuring and reporting device. A ball bearingrolls on level shield platform 337, and make electrical connectionbetween platform 337 and edge detectors 339. This provides a reliableand inexpensive compared to having three or more normal tilt switches.Also increases reliability since logic is simpler. This is true, becausethere is no requirement to combine readings from three or moreconflicting sensors.

FIGS. 30A and 30B demonstrate the construction of the electricalconnectivity for the tap handle flow measuring and reporting circuitry301 of the present disclosure. Using gold plated (FIG. 30A) contacts 339increases reliability. Allows tap handle 281 to be arbitrarily rotatedon faucet and still allow detection of “on” vs “off”. Compared to normalgravity switches which are uni-directional (FIG. 30B). Software may beprogrammed to determine which position of handle is “on” vs “off”. Taphandle 281 can change rotation arbitrarily for line cleaning, etc.).Combined with a faucet detector 341, below, can be used to determinewhen tap handle 281 was likely to have changed rotation.

Possible to detect both “on” and “off” using same switch 331. It is notrequired to have two different switches. Software also used to detect“no activity”—can be a backup mechanism to determine if tap handle 281is on faucet. Switch 331 operates in less than 10-degree difference fromhorizontal—detects slight backward tilt of tap handle when in offposition. Difficult to get this small degree with commercially availablegravity switches. In the present embodiment, the interior circle afterapplying pieces may be 10 mm. Rest of board as small as possible whilemetal pieces and layout. Seven metal pieces are attached pads on thePCB.

FIGS. 31A through 31C illustrate a preferred embodiment of the taphandle flow measuring and reporting device for operating consistent withthe teaching of the present disclosure. Faucet Detector 341 of FIG. 31Auses a split metal insert 343, where a faucet bolt provides conductivematerial to close switch 331. There are no moving parts (as opposed tonormal switches where there is a moving actuator. Faucet detector 341presents a low profile and does not add height to ferrule/handle. Splitmetal insert 343 is threaded, see FIG. 31B, the two halves 345 and 347separated by plastic 349. When the thread is put on a bolt, switch 331closes via conduction across the bolt.

The configuration of FIGS. 31A through 31C allows for inexpensiveassembly (no moving parts). The device is also waterproof with nogaskets required to seal. Works with normal faucet bolt metals; does notrequired bolt to be magnetic. Cannot be actuated accidentally (asopposed to a button which could accidentally be pressed). As FIG. 31Cshows, this presents a low profile with no additional height requiredfor switch activation or springs. The configuration does not depend onhow far tap handle is threaded onto faucet. If it is threaded far enoughto stay on the faucet, the switch works.

The standard lock nut may be used to hold tap handle 281 in a certainposition around bolt contributes to switch 331 activation by puttingmore force on the threads. Thread material selected for good conductionand thread strength. Thread can start as Class 2B and with additionalmanufacturing tolerances result in Class 1B. The top of metal pieceprovide surface to connect to PCB (via contacts).

One side of split thread 343 can directly connect to battery, or can usethe same clip used to hold the battery 325 to contact the top of themetal portion. The top of metal pieces can be exposed but still providewaterproof seal. Threads can either be in the metal pieces ahead oftime, or added after plastic molding. threaded metal plastic

FIGS. 32A through 32C show an alternative embodiment of the presentdisclosure. As shown, a metal piece is deflected by lock nut to touchmetal threads in housing. A drawback of this configuration is the devicecould be actuated accidentally; requires lock nut to be tightened;difficult to mold; increases height.

FIG. 33 shows a fully assembled embodiment of the device appearing inFIGS. 32A through 32C. Lock nut touches metal portion of housing; locknut also touches bolt, which touches metal threads in housing; lock nutcloses switch by connecting all the metal parts together. A drawback ofthis configuration is the device could be expensive metal part forbottom of housing; requires metal insert through housing to provide PCBaccess to metal part; requires lock nut to be tightened

An alternate faucet detector appears in FIG. 34. This switch may beactivated by bolt in cavity. A drawback of this configuration is thedevice increases height and may be difficult to mold. This furtherreduces the amount of thread available to hold tap handle 281. Anotheralternate faucet detector appears in FIG. 35. In FIG. 35, a pin goesthrough housing and activates switch on PCB. Drawbacks are that thisconfiguration requires that the PCB be under the battery. So, if nosprings used, excessive force could damage PCB. This configuration maybe difficult to assemble and make waterproof. This configuration may beactuated accidentally. Furthermore, this configuration requires a locknut to be tightened and introduces dependency on lock nut diameter. Thisconfiguration increases height—17 mm to 18 mm.

A yet further alternate faucet detector appears in FIG. 36. A variationof the split metal insert, where the contacts for the tops of the metalpieces are molded into the housing. This allows the PCB to be awaterproof cavity separate from the threads. A drawback of thisconfiguration is the device may be more expensive to mold and increasesheight. Still further alternative embodiments may be considered and allare to be considered within the scope of the presently disclosed subjectmatter.

FIG. 37 depicts a fill reader display 280 that a mobile reader 274 orsensing device 36/38 may show to indicate the status of kegs 14 within amesh network 18. Display 280 provides information 282 regarding emptykegs 14 and information 284 regarding full kegs 14. Empty kegs 14display 282 shows that keg1, keg2, keg3, and keg4 are empty kegs 14.Full kegs 14 display 284 shows the keg10, keg11, keg12 and keg13 arefull. Fill icon 286 indicates the movement from empty to full for thevarious kegs 14 in cold room 278. Indicator 286 displays that type ofliquid product is in the various kegs, here Pale Ale. Display 280 alsoindicates the date on which the display is operating.

Fill reader display 280 allows a brewery 20 to input the fill date andcontents of kegs 14 as they fill them using a normal tablet device 274.Distribution network 10 software allows a brewery 20 to pick the productwith which to fill the kegs, to manually mark kegs 14 as they arefilled, and to show nearby keg 14 and their state. According to brewery20 preferences, distribution network 10 software can either requiremanual marking of kegs 14, or automatically mark kegs 14 based uponbeing within a set distance range of fill reader 274 for a period oftime.

FIGS. 38A and 38B illustrate how stationary reader 36 may sensekeg/handle 14 status in cold room 278 with a closed metal door. In coldroom 278, mesh network 18 of radio transmitters 16 may be positionedbehind a closed metal cold room door 290.

During this time, it is not possible to obtain the necessarycommunication between radio transmitter 16 and sensing device 36/38.However, as FIG. 38B shows, once cold room door 290 opens, a clearcommunication path between stationary reader 36 and mesh network 18occurs making reading each radio transmitter 16 on kegs 14 possible.Alternatively, the communication may occur to any mobile device 38, 40,42, 60 outside cold room. While it is not possible to sense radiotransmitters 16, historical data may be stored in and forwarded fromradio transmitter 16. Alternatively, as mobile devices 38 enter and exitcold room 278, they may pick up data from kegs 14 or mesh network 18 incold room 278 for later reporting in distribution network 10.

FIGS. 39 and 40 depict the layered construction of a weighing mat 250according to present disclosure. Weighing mat 250 includes slick toplayer 292 which adheres to compressible spacer layer 294. Beneathcompressible spacer layer 294 appears bottom layer 296. Weighing mat 250may rest on metal shelf rungs 298. Bottom layer 296 may include a highfriction rubber layer 300. Slick top layer 292 may further include ridge302 upon which may rest keg 14. Slick top layer allows easy sliding ofkegs 14 on weighing mat 250. Bottom layer 296 surface may include a highfriction rubber or adhesive surface to keep weighing mat 250 in placeupon the metal shelf rungs 298. Optional raised ridge 302 on the slicktop layer 292 help position one or more kegs 14 in the best position(s)for weighing, as well as for use in association with other kegs 14 inmesh network 18.

FIG. 41 depicts a weighing or measuring device 304 for integration intothe weighing mat 250 of the present disclosure. Weighing devices 304sandwiches between slick top layer 292 and bottom layer 296. Exampleweighing devices 304 may be a load cell, pressure sensor, etc.Deflection of slick top layer 292 and compression of compressible spacerlayer 294 when a keg 14 rests on weighing mat 250 transfers the keg 14weight force onto weighing device 304. Optional spacing material can beused to support the slick top layer 292 outside weighing region(s).Overload protection prevents damage to weighing device 304 from large,sudden loads dropped from a shelf onto the weighing mat 250.

FIG. 41 further illustrates the association of radio transmitter 16 witha weighing mat 250 of the present disclosure. FIG. 41 illustratesweighing mat 250 to include weighing devices 304 positioned below ridge302. Radio transmitter 16 communicates with mat antenna 306. In theembodiment of FIG. 41, weighing mat 250 correlates keg 14 weight, asmeasured by weighing devices 304, with keg 14 state changes. Radioantenna 306 receives signals from radio transmitter 16 when keg 14 isplaced on weighing mat 250. Weighing mat 250 may then transmit the keg14 weights and other information about each keg 14 either directly to astorage system stationary reader 36, a mobile device 38 or anintermediate sensing device 36/38. Intermediate sensing devices 36/38may further include another weighing mat 250; another stationary reader36; a mobile device 38; an Internet or cloud server computer 56 viaWi-Fi; etc.

Radio transmitter 16 includes has sensors on PCB 88, which may detectevents that trigger a state change in the keg 14, mesh network 18, orelsewhere in distribution network 10. An example may be a temperaturesensor 192 that determines a change in temperature that is significantfor keg 14 state tracking. Such temperature change and/or the statechange itself is communicated to a mobile device 38 and thereby to therest of the distribution network 10.

Radio transmitter 16 placements on keg 14 bottom rim 136 permits easydetection by mat antenna 306 and signal disambiguation from other nearbykegs 14 in mesh network 18. Distribution network 10 software determineswhich brand and type of beer is on weighing mat 250; when keg 14 wasfilled; etc. Mat antenna 306 is in position to best detect radiotransmitter 16 directly above the respective weighing mat 250 and noother kegs 14 nearby, but not on weighing mat 250. Weighing mat 250 mayalso incorporate an RF shield to prevent items on weighing mats 250 onlower metal shelf rungs 298 from being detected. Mat antenna 306 may bedirectional to further help in nearby keg 14 disambiguation.

A mechanical overload protection mechanism allows directly and safelydropping full kegs 14 weighing mat 250. Such an event would occurweighing mat 250 is on the floor and a keg 14 dropped from a nearbyshelf. When using a load cell as weighing device 304, a mechanical stopis incorporated into the load cell action to prevent damage to it in thecase of overload. In the case of using a pressure sensor as weighingdevice 304, a point load will compress the slick top layer 292, spacerlayer 294, and rubber layer 300 so that the load is transferred to metalshelf rungs 298 beneath weighing mat 250. Only a load spread acrossslick top layer 292 the surface will register a read.

In each mesh network 18, one weighing mat 250 may operate as the“master” mat, responsible for collecting information from nearbyweighing mats 250 before sending to server computer 56. Weight mats 250may be individually connected to server section 52 via Wi-Fi or othermeans. Weighing mats 250 can transmit readings directly to sensingdevices 36/38 or a nearby tablet computer. Radio measurements areaggregated via distribution network 10 software from multiple weighingmats 250 to disambiguate multiple radio transmitter 16 signals fromvarious kegs 14. Keg 14 weights aggregated via distribution network 10software to automatically order more product when necessary. Weight mat250 hardware feeds events into distribution network 10 software, e.g.,kegs 14 going on and off a weighing mat 250; keg 14 is almost empty; newkeg 14 has been tapped; etc. Distribution network 10 software uses theevents received from weighing mat 250 hardware to determine additionalconditions, such as whether the last full keg 14 of a certain brand hasbeen put on tap 260; etc. These events and conditions trigger actionssuch as POS notification 262.

FIG. 42 shows a potential configuration of stacked kegs 14 as may bemeasured and monitored using the weighing mat 250 of the presentdisclosure. Alternative dual keg 14 weighing mat 310 provides theability to stack two kegs 14, as upper keg 272 and lower keg 274. Withupper keg 272 stacked on lower keg 274, weighing mat 276 may provide aweighing measure of the combined weight of the two kegs 14. Two kegs 14being stacked on top of each other assumes one of the two is either fullor empty. Thus, both kegs 14 may start full, and upper keg 14272 may bedrained. Then upper keg 272 may be placed on the bottom with lower keg274 connecting to tap 260. In this configuration, only one keg 14 isbeing drained at a time. Weight mat 250 may have a readout area showingweight/percent full/etc. for the keg 14 currently on tap 260.Distribution network 10 software may automatically compensate for theevent of whether lower keg 14274 is full or empty.

FIGS. 43 through 46 show various screens of a mobile device 38application for the present disclosure. FIG. 43 shows connection via amobile device 38 to a wireless transmission from stationary reader 36and/or radio transmitter 16. As FIG. 43 depicts, access screen 320 showsthe ability to determine that a stationary reader 36 is within aBluetooth connection of icon 322 or Wi-Fi connection of icon 324 to amobile device 38. A red indicator light 326 may show that “Truck #1” asreading station is accessible to mobile device 38. Access screen 320provides also the ability to select stations 328, trucks 330, or otherlocations within liquid product distribution network 10.

Distribution network 10 software residing on a mobile phone/devicecreates a peer-to-peer network for operating stationary reader 36. Themobile device 38 screen permits entering settings to allow stationaryreader 36 to connect to local Wi-Fi and then to the rest of theDistribution network 10. FIG. 43 is a list of stationary readers atvarious vendors 30, where red/green indicator lights 326 show indicationof stationary reader 36 operational status. The Bluetooth connectionicon 322 and Wi-Fi connection icon 324 show whether the respectivestationary reader 36 presently has a wireless connection to distributionnetwork 10.

FIG. 44 shows how mobile device 38 may connect to distribution network10. For example, mobile device 38 may connect via a server section 52 atselection 340 or a peer-to-peer network at sensors/data collectionsection 34 at selection 342. These connections are selectable by themobile device 38 user, such as the shown example of a peer-to-peernetwork selection 340 of FIG. 44.

FIG. 45 shows how mobile device 38 software may permit a user todetermine the state of distribution network 10 software at a station.Thus, version screen 350 shows the station name to be “Reader #4,” usingthe Wi-Fi network of “Private_Wifi” and version 1.1.1. Version screen350 also indicates the presence of nearby Wi-Fi networks applicable tomobile device 38. FIG. 45 shows information received from stationaryreader 36 about its current state using a name meaningful to thelocation of the reader. Also, here provided is information of whether aWi-Fi network programmed into it and the stationary reader 36 firmwareversion. The “Nearby” selection allows showing other radio transmitters16 that may be currently being detected by stationary reader 36.

FIG. 46 simply provides the ability to select among different Wi-Finetworks as would be typical in the operation of mobile device 38. FIG.46 shows identifying and selecting a Wi Fi network (“Private_Wifi”) fromavailable Wi-Fi networks as listed.

FIGS. 47 through 50 illustrate exemplary screens as may find use formobile phones and tablets operating as mobile devices 38 in detectingand reporting kegs 14 at various locations and data applicable tomonitoring and reporting. FIGS. 47 through 36 further demonstrate thecommunication capabilities of distribution network 10 software. Forexample, FIG. 47 shows mobile device 38 interface including a satelliteperspective which provides the ability to maintain different accountsassociated with distribution network 10, as well as the ability to drilldown into accounts for determining the account status. Thus, maintenanceand drill down screen 360 shows satellite image 362, including numerouskeg 14 icons 364 indicating accounts associated with distributionnetwork 10. For example, selection bar 366 provides the ability toselect nearby locations 368, kegs 14 reporting section 370, fill statusselector 372, and delivery section 374 for performing the variousdistribution network 10 functions.

FIG. 47 shows screen 360 showing analysis of the distribution network 10tracking and fill level data to present a map and locations list whereappear kegs 14 equipped with radio transmitters 16 and sensing devices36/38 for their reading. In the top half of screen 360, each circle 364with a beer mug represents a keg 14 section 12 location. A circle 362without a beer mug may represent a group of kegs 14 section 12locations. The bottom half of screen 360 may provide a list of theaccounts associated with each circle 362 or 364. Either clicking on acircle 362 or 364, or clicking on the account name below will revealFIG. 48, which provides more information concerning the particularaccount, here 15th Street Cafe. The icon may vary based upon kegs 14status at the particular location.

The controls at bottom of map area of screen 360 include (1) adding anew account not already measured; (2) changing the map graphics type;(3) showing the user's current location; (4) changing the size of themap vs the list. The four yellow buttons at the top of the list arealead to four screens with specific information about: (1) containersbeing detected nearby within a given radius of the user; (2) a list ofall containers, their location/state/etc. (3) a control to fill kegs 14similar to FIG. 38; (4) a delivery screen for entering notes andinformation about a specific delivery.

By doing a reverse address lookup (from GPS to street address) whentruck 70 stops, distribution networks 10 may determine the deliveryaccount and, thereby, inventory at the keg 4 section 12 location. If asending device 36/38 does not include reverse street address lookupcapability, GPS data associating with the sensing device 36/38 may passto server computer 56, which pushes the GPS data to a different sensingdevice 36/38 capable of performing the lookup; or pass directly toanother sensing device 36/38 within distribution network 10. Thedetermined reverse street address lookup result may then be sent back tothe original sensing device 36/38. Once an address is looked up, sensingdevice 36/38 may cache the address, so the next time only the GPS datais needed to determine the associated keg 14 section 12 account.Distribution network 10 software may also display route information to adriver of truck 70. Such route information may include accounts for theday, driving route, what to drop off and pick up, verifies driver dropsand picks correct inventory; etc. Distribution network 10 software mayalso learn a truck 70 driver's route over time. For example,distribution network 10 software may record that deliveries to a certainaccount are always made from a certain parking place. This informationbecomes a part of the knowledge base displayed by the distributionnetwork 10 software to the truck 70 driver. Distribution network 10software further provides a knowledge base serving as a repository forroutes, specific account information such as combinations to locks,where keg 14 empties are stored, etc., schedules, invoices, drop off andpickup requirements, etc. The pickup, delivery and inventory data iscorrelated against invoices, route schedule, last known inventory (i.e.lost kegs), etc. tablet 244 on truck 70 may communicate wirelessly withtruck reader 230 for displaying mapping, routing, etc. FIG. 48 shows theresults of selecting “Nearby” function 368, where a 15th St. Cafe, forexample, report may be generated as screen 390. In the report of screen390 would be information relating to the keg 14 configuration andassociated mesh network for their reporting location, here the 15th St.Cafe.

FIG. 49 shows the type of information available about each keg 14 inaddition to above: serial number, contents, location, keg 14 size,history of keg 14. Upon selecting kegs 14 function 370, keg 14information screen 380 of FIG. 49 may appear on mobile device 38. Suchinformation may include a name assigned to a keg 14, the productcontained in keg 14, the state of keg 14, any identification numberrelating to keg 14, the size of keg 14 and any operations of importancerelating to keg 14.

FIG. 49 shows the type of information available about the account: nameand address; notes about the account (instructions, who to contact,etc.); the kegs 14 on site and their contents; date of delivery to theaccount; how full the kegs 14 are; statistical history about the accountincluding average days a keg 14 takes to empty; average rate of productconsumption.

FIG. 50 relates a POS marketing feedback loop 262 of FIG. 37 accordingto the present disclosure. POS marketing feedback loop 262 may associatevia an application or wireless network to indicate to consumer 66 of arestaurant or other keg 14 section 12 location where kegs 14 containingbeer of known interest to consumer 66 may be available. Screen 400appears on a consumer 66 mobile device 38 to provide a notification fromRMS section 58 of distribution network 10. Screen 400 indicates an eventthat may be of interest or importance to consumer 66 or otherparticipant in distribution network 10. Notification 402 shows that“Austin IPA” brand of beer has just been made available at the location“Revolution.” Through this notification, mobile device 38 allowsconsumer 66 to share this information or just acknowledge the event byrespectively selecting “Share It” or “OK.” The value of this function toall participants in distribution network 10 may be quite high.

FIGS. 51A through 51D illustrate data as may be reported by distributionnetwork 10 software for performing various management and financialfunctions associated with deposit information and financialtransactions. Such management and financial information has significantbenefit respecting invoices, accounting and verification of truck 70driver-entered information relating to deliveries of kegs 14. FIG. 51Aprovides a report that a distributor 64 or brewery 20 may find highlyadvantageous in reporting inventory by keg 14 section 12 location.Report 410 could apply to a distributor 64, for example, and provides an“Inventory by Location” a listing of vendor 30 locations 412 that adistributor 64 may service. Report segment 414 presents a status for anempty keg 14 that may be at a location. Report segment 416 presentstime-stamped information regarding a history of keg 14 having theidentify of “Keg #008.” Thus, FIG. 51A shows how distribution network 10software permits drilling down from a high level aggregate view intoindividual keg 14 histories.

FIG. 51B provides information relating to the kegs 14 that may be at aparticular vendor 30 location in a “Turns Report.” FIG. 51B showscalculations of keg 14 “state” and how many days each keg 14 is at eachstate. It also shows a complete keg 14 cycle from brewery (date atleft); through various states; to keg 14 back at brewery (date onright).

FIG. 51C provides an “Inventory Report” by keg 14 or on a per-keg 14basis. FIG. 51C shows similar data to 51B, except with the currentlocation of the keg 14 appears in column 2; the contents of the keg 14in column 3—and current progress of the keg 14 through states as it hasprogressed so far.

FIG. 51D shows a “Daily Changes” report at a location. The FIG. 51Dreport shows day-by-day changes in states of kegs 14 and they progressthrough distribution network 10. These are just examples of the manytypes of reports and financial in management information that thedistribution network 10 software and components make possible. Inapplication, other types of reports may also be a benefit toparticipants in distribution network 10.

FIG. 52 shows an Accounts Screen for viewing vendor 30 accounts, theirlocation on the map, information about the vendor, inventory at thevendor, and account history. The FIG. 52 Accounts Screen showsinformation as may be generated by distribution network 10 in thedelivery of kegs 14 and indicates the last inventory of a vendor 30location as may be viewed by a truck 70 driver. The Accounts Screen ofFIG. 52 permits drilling down to a location to indicate the status of alocation that is part of distribution network 10. The Account Screenincludes reporting and includes a vendor 30 view of kegs, products,readers, etc. that may be viewed via web browser or inside thedistribution network 10 mobile device 38 app. Account Screen displaysdata about radio transmitters 16, kegs 14, breweries 20, products (e.g.,beer brands and types), distributors 64, vendors 30, keg 14 section 12locations, stationary readers 36, etc. either individually or ingroupings/aggregates. The Account Screen further provides a dashboarddisplay for showing overall information in user-customizable cells. TheAccount Screen of FIG. 52 displays only data permitted to user/device,and further can generate notices (e.g., beer too old, lost keg, mistakesin delivery) of importance throughout distribution network 10.

FIG. 53 shows further aspect of liquid product distribution network himfor automatically managing the deposit information. Such information mayinclude how many kegs 14 are at each vendor 30 location in distributionnetwork 10. When a keg 14 with a radio transmitter 16 or collar radiotransmitter 142 appears in keg 14 section 12, such as a vendor 30location, from a delivery truck 70, it automatically becomes a part ofthe distribution network 10 at the keg 14 section 12 location. This isindicated by the report 420 of FIG. 53, which includes depositinformation relating to the keg. The delivery of a keg 14, therefore,initiates a financial transaction relating to the newly deposited keg 14at the vendor 30 location. Thus, where a deposit is made, a charge of$120 appears because of communication with radio transmitter 16.Likewise, when a keg 14 having radio transmitter 16 is returned viadistribution network 10, a return reimbursement of $60 appears. Theshown example Distribution network 10 system automatically credits anddebits a deposit based upon measurements of 4 kegs 14 being left and 2picked up. On the right is shown detection of the actual kegs 14 at thevendor 30 account, and use of this data to populate the invoice so itshows the exact kegs 14 dropped off and picked up.

Software automatically manages deposit information—how many kegs 14 areat each location determines that location's rolling deposit fee. Thedeposit information automatically propagates back to invoices,accounting, etc.; or is used as a double check against the driversentered data. The invoice is normally prepared before the truck 70driver leaves the warehouse, and his stack of invoices used as a picklist to put kegs 14 and their products on truck 70. When the truck 70driver actually makes a delivery, the particular keg(s) 14 deposited andpicked up are added to the invoice. “Inventory” report section 422 ofFIG. 53 shows a listing of all kegs 14 that may be in a keg 14 sectionlocation. Column 424 of Inventory Report 422 provides the identificationof a keg 14 having the identifier “QB #3-005.” Column 426 shows that theQB #3-005 keg 14 contains 6 inches of product, as column 428 shows,“Pale Ale.” Inventory Report 422 further shows that distribution network10 has also detected other kegs 14, such as kegs 14 having identifiers“HB#3-001,” “HB#3-003,” etc. All kegs 14 listed in Inventory Report 422have the associated contents measure in terms of both volume and type ofbeer.

In summary, a liquid product distribution network monitoring andreporting system here disclosed includes a keg distribution monitoringand reporting apparatus for operation in association with a tap handleflow monitoring and reporting apparatus. The keg distribution monitoringand reporting apparatus include a radio transmitter device comprising alow-energy consumption radio/processing module. Sensing circuitryassociates with the radio transmitter device for sensing andcommunicating to the radio/processing module physical propertiesassociating with the keg. Radiofrequency signal transmission circuitryassociates with the radio/processing module for transmittingradiofrequency signals without the use of geographic position or cellradio circuitry.

The tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus includescircuitry for sensing flow of a liquid through a tap positioned todispense a liquid from the keg. The tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus includes a tap handle radio transmitter device forfitting within and being protected by a tap handle and comprising alow-energy consumption tap handle radio/processing module. The taphandle sensing circuitry associates with the tap handle radiotransmitter device for sensing and communicating to the tap handleradio/processing module physical properties associating with liquiddispensed from the keg.

Tap handle radiofrequency signal transmission circuitry associates withthe tap handle radio/processing module for transmitting radiofrequencysignals from the tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatuswithout the use of geographic position or cell radio circuitry. A taphandle battery power supply fits within and protected by the tap handleand electrically powers the tap handle radio transmitter device.

A mobile communications device including geographic position sensing andcell radio circuitry for moving to a plurality of locations within thekeg distribution network and configured to selectively receive andprocess the radiofrequency signals from the small form factor andreporting device and/or the tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus passively and without user interaction. The mobilecommunications device further includes memory circuitry for storing dataand computer processor executable instructions relating to the keg andthe keg distribution network. The mobile communications device furtherincludes computer processing circuitry for processing the data andexecuting the executable instructions for monitoring and reporting thephysical properties and location of the keg within the keg distributionnetwork, without otherwise using network uplink/gateway circuit device.

The keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus and the taphandle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus may operate independentlyor collaboratively for sensing and reporting the status of fluidstorage, flow, and financial operations relating to the distribution ofthe liquid product throughout the liquid product distribution network.

Because a user operates the tap handle, the tap handle sensing devicemay incorporate sensors which can distinguish between different peopleoperating the same handle. For example, the tap handle incorporates anNFC detection circuit to detect a bracelet or ring worn by eachemployee; could incorporate a finger print reader; or other biometricsensor to distinguish who is operating the handle. This could beanonymous—merely distinguishing between individuals—or particular and asecurity function—only allowing certain people to operate the handle.

Combining the above data collection with a record of beverages dispensedprovides a cross-reference of employee activity with sales activity.

The benefits and advantages that may be provided by the presentinvention has been described above regarding specific embodiments. Thesebenefits and advantages, and any elements or limitations that may causethem to occur or to become more pronounced are not to be construed ascritical, required, or essential features of any of any or all of theclaims. As used herein, the singular forms “a”, “an”, and “the” areintended to include the plural forms as well, unless the context clearlyindicates otherwise. It is further understood that the terms “comprises”and/or “comprising” or “includes” and/or including”, or any othervariation thereof, are intended to be interpreted as nonexclusivelyincluding the elements or limitations which follow those terms.Accordingly, a system, method, or other embodiment that comprises a setof elements is not limited to only those elements, and may include otherelements not expressly listed or inherent to the claimed embodiment.These terms when used in this specification, specify the presence ofstated features, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, and/orcomponents, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or morefeatures, regions, integers, steps, operations, elements, components,and/or groups thereof.

We claim:
 1. A liquid product distribution network monitoring andreporting system, comprising: A keg distribution monitoring andreporting apparatus for operation in association with a tap handle flowmonitoring and reporting apparatus; said keg distribution monitoring andreporting apparatus, comprising: a small form factor keg sensing andreporting device, comprising: an outer housing having a height anddiameter of less than several inches for fitting on and fixedlyattaching to top or bottom chime of a keg without extending any kegphysical boundaries in any dimension, and further whereby the top orbottom chime physically protects said outer housing during kegdistribution in a keg distribution network; an inner housing fittingwithin and protected by said outer housing; a radio transmitter devicefitting within and protected by said inner housing and comprising alow-energy consumption radio/processing module; sensing circuitryassociated with said radio transmitter device for sensing andcommunicating to said radio/processing module physical propertiesassociating with the keg, and radiofrequency signal transmissioncircuitry associated with said radio/processing module for transmittingradiofrequency signals from said small form factor keg sensing andreporting device without the use of geographic position or cell radiocircuitry; and further a battery power supply fitting within andprotected by said outer housing and electrically powering said radiotransmitter device; whereby said small form factor keg sensing andreporting device operates without geographic position sensing or cellradio circuitry for a period of up to five years; and a mobilecommunications device comprising geographic position sensing and cellradio circuitry for moving to a plurality of locations within the kegdistribution network and configured to receive and process saidradiofrequency signals from said small form factor and reporting devicepassively and without user interaction; said mobile communicationsdevice further comprising memory circuitry for storing data and computerprocessor executable instructions relating to the keg and the kegdistribution network, and further comprising computer processingcircuitry for processing said data and executing said executableinstructions for monitoring and reporting the physical properties andlocation of the keg within the keg distribution network, withoutotherwise using network uplink/gateway circuit device; and said taphandle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus comprising circuitry andfor sensing flow of a liquid through a tap positioned to dispense aliquid from said keg.
 2. The liquid product distribution networkmonitoring and reporting system of claim 1, wherein said kegdistribution monitoring and reporting apparatus further comprises atleast one self-contained transducer within said outer housing andassociated with said sensing circuitry for sensing an associated filllevel of said keg.
 3. The liquid product distribution network monitoringand reporting system of claim 1, said keg distribution monitoring andreporting apparatus further comprising mechanical or electronic locksfor preventing unauthorized removal of said keg distribution monitoringand reporting apparatus from the keg distribution monitoring andreporting apparatus.
 4. The liquid product distribution networkmonitoring and reporting system of claim 1, further comprising aplurality of LED lights, LCD display, or other display mechanismproviding visual indication of alarms and operational status of the keg.5. The liquid product distribution network monitoring and reportingsystem of claim 1, said keg distribution monitoring and reportingapparatus further comprising instructions and circuitry for permitting aconsumer mobile device to decode signal transmitted from said kegdistribution monitoring and reporting apparatus.
 6. The liquid productdispensing container device of claim 1, further comprising a battery andassociated circuitry for operating said liquid product dispensingcontainer device in a self-contained mode for at least three months. 7.The liquid product distribution network monitoring and reporting systemof claim 1, wherein said tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus further comprises: a tap handle radio transmitter device forfitting within and protected by a tap handle and comprising a low-energyconsumption tap handle radio/processing module; tap handle sensingcircuitry associated with said tap handle radio transmitter device forsensing and communicating to said tap handle radio/processing modulephysical properties associating with the tap handle, and tap handleradiofrequency signal transmission circuitry associated with said taphandle radio/processing module for transmitting radiofrequency signalsfrom said tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus without theuse of geographic position or cell radio circuitry; and further a taphandle battery power supply fitting within and protected by saidensemble and electrically powering said tap handle radio transmitterdevice; and a mobile communications device comprising geographicposition sensing and cell radio circuitry for moving to a plurality oflocations within the keg distribution network and configured toselectively receive and process said radiofrequency signals from saidsmall form factor and reporting device and/or said tap handle flowmonitoring and reporting apparatus passively and without userinteraction; said mobile communications device further comprising memorycircuitry for storing data and computer processor executableinstructions relating to the keg and the keg distribution network, andfurther comprising computer processing circuitry for processing saiddata and executing said executable instructions for monitoring andreporting the physical properties and location of the tap handle withinthe keg distribution network, without otherwise using networkuplink/gateway circuit device.
 8. A method for monitoring and reportingthe physical properties and location of a liquid storage and dispensingdata in a keg-based distribution network, comprising the steps of:operating a keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus inassociation with a tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus;said keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus operating stepscomprising the steps of: attaching a small form factor keg sensing andreporting device to a keg, comprising the steps of: fitting and fixedlyattaching an outer housing having a height and diameter of less thanseveral inches to a top or bottom chime of a keg without extending anykeg physical boundaries in any dimension, and further physicallyprotecting said outer housing using the top or bottom chime during kegdistribution in a keg distribution network; fitting an inner housingwithin said outer housing; fitting within said inner housing andprotecting a radio transmitter device comprising a low-energyconsumption radio/processing module; associating with said radiotransmitter device sensing circuitry for sensing and communicating tosaid radio/processing module physical properties associated with thekeg, and associating radiofrequency signal transmission circuitry withsaid radio/processing module for transmitting radiofrequency signalsfrom said small form factor keg sensing and reporting device without theuse of geographic position or cell radio circuitry; and further fittinga battery power supply within said outer housing and electricallypowering said radio transmitter device using said battery power supply,whereby said small form factor keg sensing and reporting device operateswithout geographic position sensing or cell radio circuitry for a periodof up to five years; and moving a mobile communications devicecomprising geographic position sensing and cell radio circuitry to aplurality of locations within the keg distribution network andconfiguring said mobile communications device to receive and processsaid radiofrequency signals from said small form factor and reportingdevice passively and without user interaction; storing data and computerprocessor executable instructions relating to the keg and the kegdistribution in memory circuitry within said mobile communicationsdevice, and processing said data and executing said executableinstructions for monitoring and reporting the physical properties andlocation of the keg within the keg distribution network andcommunicating with the keg distribution network using computerprocessing circuitry within said mobile communications device, withoutotherwise using a network uplink/gateway circuit device; and said taphandle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus operating stepscomprising the steps of sensing flow of a liquid through a tappositioned to dispense a liquid from the keg.
 9. The method of claim 8,further comprising the step of operating at least one self-containedtransducers within said keg distribution monitoring and reportingapparatus and associated with said attached sensors for determining thefill level of the keg.
 10. The method of claim 8, further comprising thestep of preventing unauthorized removal of said keg distributionmonitoring and reporting apparatus from the liquid product dispensingcontainer using at least one mechanical or electronic locks operatingwithin said outer housing.
 11. The method of claim 8, further comprisingthe step of generating at least one set of alarms and operational statusinformation from said keg distribution monitoring and reportingapparatus for transmission as wireless signals to a display unitproviding visual indication of alarms and operational status of saidliquid product dispensing container device using a plurality of LEDlights, LCD display, or other display mechanisms.
 12. The method ofclaim 8, further comprising the step of permitting a consumer mobiledevice to decode a plurality of signals transmitted from said kegdistribution monitoring and reporting apparatus using instructions andcircuitry associated with said radio/processing module.
 13. The methodof claim 8, further comprising the step of operating said tap handleflow monitoring and reporting apparatus by performing the steps of:operating a tap handle radio transmitter device fitting within andprotected by a tap handle and comprising a low-energy consumption taphandle radio/processing module; sensing and communicating to said taphandle radio/processing module physical properties associated with thetap handle using a tap handle sensing circuitry associated with said taphandle radio transmitter device, and transmitting radiofrequency signalsfrom said tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus without theuse of geographic position or cell radio circuitry using radiofrequencysignal transmission circuitry associated with said tap handleradio/processing module; and further supplying power to said tap handleflow monitoring and reporting apparatus using a tap handle battery powersupply fitting within and protected by said ensemble and electricallypowering said tap handle radio transmitter device; and sensinggeographic position of said tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus using sensing and cell radio circuitry associated with amobile communications device for moving to a plurality of locationswithin the keg distribution network and configured to selectivelyreceive and process said radiofrequency signals from said small formfactor and reporting device and/or said tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus passively and without user interaction; storing dataand computer processor executable instructions relating to the keg andthe keg distribution network using memory circuitry associated with saidmobile communications device, and further processing said data andexecuting said executable instructions for monitoring and reporting thephysical properties and location of the keg within the keg distributionnetwork, without otherwise using network uplink/gateway circuit device.14. The method of claim 8, further comprising the step of forming saidtap handle flow monitoring apparatus within the form factor of a taphandle for dispensing said liquid product for concealing the presence ofsaid tap handle flow monitoring apparatus within said tap handle andthereby preventing detection of said tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus during normal tap handle operations.
 15. A liquidproduct distribution network monitoring and reporting system,comprising: A keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus foroperation in association with a tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus; said keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus,comprising: a radio transmitter device comprising a low-energyconsumption radio/processing module; sensing circuitry associated withsaid radio transmitter device for sensing and communicating to saidradio/processing module physical properties associating with the taphandle, its operator, and/or the valve it is attached to, andradiofrequency signal transmission circuitry associated with saidradio/processing module for transmitting radiofrequency signals withoutthe use of geographic position or cell radio circuitry; and said taphandle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus comprising circuitry andfor sensing flow of a liquid through a tap positioned to dispense aliquid from said keg, wherein said tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus further comprises: a tap handle radio transmitterdevice for fitting within and protected by a tap handle and comprising alow-energy consumption tap handle radio/processing module; tap handlesensing circuitry associated with said tap handle radio transmitterdevice for sensing and communicating to said tap handle radio/processingmodule physical properties associating with liquid dispensed from thekeg, and tap handle radiofrequency signal transmission circuitryassociated with said tap handle radio/processing module for transmittingradiofrequency signals from said tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus without the use of geographic position or cell radiocircuitry; and further a tap handle battery power supply fitting withinand protected by said ensemble and electrically powering said tap handleradio transmitter device; and a mobile communications device comprisinggeographic position sensing and cell radio circuitry for moving to aplurality of locations within the keg distribution network andconfigured to selectively receive and process said radiofrequencysignals from said small form factor and reporting device and/or said taphandle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus passively and withoutuser interaction; said mobile communications device further comprisingmemory circuitry for storing data and computer processor executableinstructions relating to the keg and the keg distribution network, andfurther comprising computer processing circuitry for processing saiddata and executing said executable instructions for monitoring andreporting the physical properties and location of the keg within the kegdistribution network, without otherwise using network uplink/gatewaycircuit device; wherein said keg distribution monitoring and reportingapparatus and said tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatusmay operate independently or collaboratively for sensing and reportingthe status of fluid storage, flow, and financial operations relating tothe distribution of said liquid product throughout the liquid productdistribution network.
 16. The liquid product dispensing network of claim15, wherein said tap handle monitoring and reporting apparatus furthercomprises a tap handle tilt positioning switching device for sensing andreporting the positioning of the tap handle as an indication of liquidproduct flow from the keg through said tap handle.
 17. The liquidproduct dispensing network of claim 15, wherein said tap handle flowmonitoring and reporting apparatus further comprises mechanical orelectronic locks for preventing unauthorized removal of said liquidproduct dispensing container device from the liquid product dispensingcontainer. Perhaps: the liquid product dispensing network of claim 15,wherein said tap handle monitoring and reporting apparatus furthercomprises sensors to distinguish between different individuals operatingthe same handle.
 18. The liquid product dispensing network of claim 15,wherein said keg distribution monitoring and reporting apparatus fortransmission as wireless signals to a display unit providing visualindication of alarms and operational status of keg distributionmonitoring and reporting apparatus using a plurality of LED lights, LCDdisplay, or other display mechanisms.
 19. The liquid product dispensingnetwork of claim 15, wherein either said keg distribution monitoring andreporting apparatus or said tap handle flow monitoring and reportingapparatus or both comprise instructions and circuitry for permitting aconsumer mobile device to decode signal transmitted from said liquidproduct dispensing container device.
 20. The liquid product dispensingnetwork of claim 15, wherein said tap handle flow monitoring andreporting apparatus further comprises a battery and associated circuitryfor operating said tap handle flow monitoring and reporting apparatus ina self-contained mode for at least three months.